Internet users across Pakistan may experience slower internet speeds during peak hours until November 2, 2026, due to emergency maintenance on the AAE-1 international submarine cable, Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) has announced.
The maintenance began on October 27 on the cable section between Italy and France. PTCL said users may experience “minor service degradation” during peak hours while the work continues.
The company thanked customers for their patience and understanding during the maintenance period.
Internet slowdown in Pakistan: Check dates
According to PTCL, the maintenance period runs from October 27 to November 2, 2026. During this time, users may notice reduced internet speeds, particularly during busy hours.
PTCL has not specified exact hours for the expected slowdown. The impact may vary depending on network traffic and the services being accessed.
Why is the internet slowing down in Pakistan?
The Asia-Africa-Europe 1 (AAE-1) submarine cable is a major route for Pakistan’s international internet traffic. The approximately 25,000-kilometre system connects Southeast Asia with Europe through Egypt, with a landing point in Karachi.
PTCL commissioned the cable system’s Pakistan operations in 2017. Its European connections include landing points in Greece, Italy and France.
As maintenance is taking place on the Italy-France section, users may experience slower access to services hosted in Europe, particularly during peak evening hours.
Previous internet disruptions in Pakistan
Pakistan has experienced internet slowdowns due to submarine cable faults in the past.
In January 2025, a fault near Qatar affected internet speeds across the country for nearly two weeks. PTCL later announced that the fault had been fixed.
PTCL has not confirmed whether additional backup bandwidth will be provided during the current maintenance period.
1. Until when could internet speeds remain slow in Pakistan?
Users may experience slower speeds during peak hours until November 2, 2026.
2. Why is the internet slowing down in Pakistan?
PTCL has attributed the potential slowdown to emergency maintenance on the AAE-1 submarine cable between Italy and France.
3. Will internet services be completely suspended?
PTCL has announced the possibility of minor service degradation during peak hours, not a complete internet shutdown.
