The PTA Submarine Cable Expansion marks a major milestone in Pakistan’s digital infrastructure development. By integrating the country’s internet framework with the 2Africa Cable, a 45,000-kilometer subsea project, Pakistan is poised to significantly enhance its internet speeds and global connectivity. Spearheaded by Meta (Facebook) and supported by a consortium of global partners, this project is set to transform the nation’s digital future.
Project Overview: Transforming Connectivity
The 2Africa Cable, the world’s largest subsea cable system, links 46 landing stations across Europe, Africa, and Asia. With cutting-edge SDM1 technology, this cable offers a staggering capacity of 180Tbps.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), in collaboration with Transworld Associate (TWA)—the landing partner for Pakistan—has made significant strides in bringing this advanced technology to the country.
Phase 1 of the project began on December 1, 2024, with the Pre-Lay Shore End (PLSE) installation at Hawksbay, Karachi. Phase 2, involving deep-sea cable laying, is scheduled to start on April 1, 2025. Once completed, the system is expected to become fully operational by Q4 2025.
Impact of the PTA Submarine Cable Expansion
The PTA Submarine Cable Expansion is set to deliver some of the fastest internet speeds globally, significantly boosting Pakistan’s digital economy. With improved international telecommunications infrastructure, the project will:
- Enhance internet reliability and speed.
- Facilitate technological innovation and business growth.
- Strengthen Pakistan’s position in the global digital ecosystem.
By linking Pakistan to the 2Africa Cable’s extensive network, the country will be better equipped to handle growing internet traffic demands while offering seamless global connectivity.
Timeline and Progress
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December 1, 2024: Pre-Lay Shore End (PLSE) installation began at Hawksbay, Karachi.
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April 1, 2025: Deep-sea cable laying to commence.
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Q4 2025: The 2Africa Cable is set to go live in Pakistan, enabling high-speed global connectivity.
Once fully operational, users will experience a transformative internet experience, with reduced latency and enhanced speeds that rival global standards.
A Leap Forward for Pakistan’s Digital Landscape
The PTA Submarine Cable Expansion is not just a project; it’s a step toward positioning Pakistan as a global digital hub. By unlocking the potential of one of the world’s most advanced subsea cable systems, the initiative will pave the way for a connected, innovative, and economically robust future.
Stay Safe from Fraudulent Online Activities
The PTA Phishing Scam Alert has been issued by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), warning citizens about the increasing threat of phishing scams targeting personal and financial information. The alert emphasizes that PTA never requests sensitive details like passwords or OTPs via calls, texts, or emails. To stay safe, the public is advised to avoid unknown messages, ignore suspicious links, and never share private information with unverified sources.
