ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): Although an official launch date is yet to be announced, initial reports suggest that Starlink is going to introduce three service packages in Pakistan, with the possibly high pricing of its packages likely to make it less affordable for the average Pakistani consumer.
According to initial reports, the residential Package would cost Rs35,000/month (50-250 Mbps) with a one-time hardware installation fee of Rs110,000.
Business Package is likely to cost Rs95,000/month with a one-time setup cost of Rs220,000.
Mobility Package would cost Rs50,000/month with a one-time hardware cost of Rs120,000, the initial reports suggest.
Starlink satellite connectivity
While Starlink’s satellite connectivity and speed offers significant advantages over conventional broadband, the possible costly packages may make it less accessible for the average Pakistani consumer.
Starlink has already secured temporary licence to operate in Pakistan and is yet to receive full approval. The full licence will be granted only after the finalization of relevant regulations. “Starlink has been issued temporary licence, and the full licence will follow once the necessary regulations are finalized,” PTA Chairman told a parliamentary panel on Monday.
Even after receiving its PTA initial approval, the company will face multiple challenges before launching its services in the country.
Setting up ground stations, obtaining security clearance, and ensuring seamless integration within the existing telecom ecosystem will take at least a year, the industry experts believe.
Another key issue is the regulatory framework governing satellite internet services.
Unlike traditional fiber or cellular networks, satellite-based internet requires additional security and spectrum allocation approvals, which could further delay rollout.
Satellite internet services are set to launch in Pakistan by November or December this year, with both Starlink and Chinese company Shanghai Space in the running to cater the demand, according to IT Minister Shaza Fatima.
She told the National Assembly Standing Committee on Information Technology that satellite internet services are likely to be operational in the country by end 2025, following the installation of required infrastructure.
She told the panel that along with Starlink, Chinese company Shanghai Space has also applied for satellite internet services in Pakistan, and that its application is currently under review.
Members of the committee expressed strong dissatisfaction over the standard of internet services, particularly the poor signals and unreliable connectivity in several parts of the country.
