The Universal Service Fund (USF) has unveiled ambitious plans to install 2,000 kilometers of optical fiber cable (OFC) throughout Pakistan in the fiscal year 2024-25. This announcement was made to the National Assembly Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunication, highlighting a significant step toward enhancing the country's digital infrastructure.

This initiative is part of USF's ongoing Optical Fiber Program, which began in November 2020 to deepen fiber connectivity at the Union Council (UC) level. The program aims to bring high-speed internet access to more remote areas, fostering greater inclusion in the digital economy.

To date, the USF has launched 17 major OFC projects, successfully connecting 884 UCs with a total of 9,068 kilometers of fiber optic cable. This extensive network provides essential backhaul support for existing 3G and 4G mobile broadband services and lays the groundwork for future 5G expansion across the nation.

Despite these advancements, the deployment of 5G services in rural regions remains pending. USF noted that the rollout of commercial 5G networks hinges on the business plans of telecom operators and the issuance of necessary licenses by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). Once these licenses are granted, USF intends to identify unserved and underserved areas for 5G infrastructure development and design projects tailored to those needs.

In response to concerns raised by MNA Zulfiqar Ali Bhatti regarding the lack of telecom services in four underserved locations in the Sargodha district—specifically, Chak numbers 67nb, 163nb, 112nb, and 152nb—the USF stated that these areas have been assessed for potential intervention. While the PTA had identified these locations, Chak number 115 was omitted from their report. USF confirmed that these areas are on their radar for future connectivity projects.

USF emphasized that bridging the digital divide involves more than just expanding physical telecom infrastructure. Efforts must also focus on improving digital literacy, content localization, and public education. While USF's projects primarily address connectivity through mobile broadband and fiber backhaul initiatives, the organization acknowledges that eliminating the digital divide requires comprehensive measures, including educational programs, socioeconomic interventions, and effective government policies.

Furthermore, USF stated that while their initiatives significantly contribute to reducing connectivity gaps, completely eradicating the digital divide by 2030 exceeds their capacity alone. The fund will continue to optimize its annual projects based on available resources, but achieving a fully connected digital society necessitates policy support, financial investments, and collaborative efforts with government entities and private stakeholders.
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