With the unveiling of three digital projects on Friday (7), questions have arisen about whether Sri Lanka is ready to embrace the challenges of digitised infrastructure, particularly regarding the consistency of high-speed internet.
At present, internet coverage across Sri Lanka remains inconsistent, with many rural areas still experiencing limited or no connectivity. Even in Colombo, where infrastructure is more developed, internet speeds often slow down during peak hours, raising concerns about network congestion and service reliability.
Given these persistent issues, uncertainty surrounds the Government’s promises of nationwide high-speed internet and digital transformation.
According to Ookla’s Speedtest Global Index, as of December 2024, Sri Lanka ranks 98th globally for mobile internet speeds, with a median download speed of 21.04 Mbps, and 131st for fixed broadband, with a median download speed of 60.56 Mbps.
Initiatives to improve connectivity
Speaking on the challenges, Telecommunications Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka (TRCSL) Director General Bandula Herath admitted that internet disruptions, particularly those caused by submarine cable damages, had been a persistent issue.
“To address this, Sri Lanka has already acted to establish a National Submarine Cable Protection Committee to enhance resilience and minimise downtime. The committee will bring together key stakeholders to coordinate responses and ensure the rapid restoration of services,” he said.
Sri Lanka’s primary telecom providers, including Sri Lanka Telecom (SLT) and Dialog Axiata, have been steadily rolling out fibre optic networks to improve connectivity. SLT, in particular, has introduced Very-High-Bit-Rate Digital Subscriber Line 2 (VDSL2) technology, allowing data speeds of up to 100 Mbps, a significant step towards improving fixed broadband services.
Furthermore, the Lanka Government Network (LGN), a State-led initiative, has already connected over 800 Government organisations to high-speed internet.
When contacted, Ministry of Digital Economy Acting Secretary Waruna Sri Dhanapala revealed that the next phase of this initiative aimed to connect around 8,000 schools to the network, ensuring that educational institutions in rural areas had access to reliable internet services.
The rollout of 5G technology in Sri Lanka marks a major milestone in the country’s digital evolution. The TRCSL has already initiated the process of allocating spectrum in the 3.5 GHz and 27 GHz bands for the deployment of 5G broadband services.
Herath further outlined TRCSL’s phased approach, noting: “In 2025, we plan to allocate 200 MHz in the 3.5 GHz band and 400 MHz in the 27 GHz band, followed by an additional 200 MHz in 2026.”
However, the transition to 5G presents significant challenges. Herath pointed out that 5G networks required a much denser infrastructure, with thousands of small cells needed to ensure seamless connectivity. Additionally, upgrading fibre and microwave connections for backhaul connectivity is a costly but necessary investment.
“Maintaining a dense network of small cells and ensuring optimal performance adds to operational costs, which needs strategic investment,” he said.
Satellite internet
The arrival of satellite internet services such as Starlink introduces both opportunities and regulatory challenges. The TRCSL is working to establish guidelines to ensure service quality, pricing fairness, and national security compliance.
“We need to set benchmarks for minimum speed and latency while preventing monopolistic pricing practices,” Herath said.
On pricing, TRCSL has decided not to impose additional tariffs on Starlink but will evaluate its rates in comparison with other Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to maintain market fairness. National security remains a key concern, with the TRCSL planning to monitor satellite internet services closely.
Dhanapala further stated that the Government had been actively working to enhance high-speed internet connectivity across Sri Lanka, particularly in rural and underserved areas. The ‘Gamata Sannivedanaya’ project, spearheaded by the TRCSL, is a significant initiative designed to bridge connectivity gaps.
“Internet access should not be a luxury but a fundamental right. Through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), we are ensuring that digital infrastructure reaches every corner of the country, enabling citizens to fully participate in the digital economy,” he told The Sunday Morning.
“This means that most of the villages in Sri Lanka will be given connectivity and internet accessibility. Alongside this, private telecom players are expected to enhance their broadband facilities as well,” he added.
Dhanapala further stated that a bandwidth auction in the near future was very likely, which would enable internet service providers to acquire and secure additional frequencies through the TRCSL.
Acquiring additional frequencies benefits ISPs by increasing bandwidth and network capacity, enabling faster speeds, and reducing congestion, particularly during peak hours. It enhances coverage, with higher frequencies improving urban connectivity and lower frequencies extending services to rural areas.
More spectrum allows for better quality of service, minimising buffering, lag, and disruptions essential for streaming, gaming, and remote work. It also supports the deployment of advanced technologies like 5G, ensuring ultra-fast speeds, low latency, and seamless connectivity for multiple devices. ISPs with greater spectrum holdings gain a competitive edge, offering superior services and attracting more customers.
Additionally, expanded spectrum reduces interference in crowded areas, facilitating smooth network operations. It also plays a crucial role in supporting the Internet of Things (IoT), smart cities, and industrial automation, accommodating the increasing number of connected devices. Ultimately, acquiring additional frequencies strengthens the internet infrastructure, ensuring reliable, high-speed connectivity nationwide.
Another challenge is device compatibility. While many new smartphones support 5G, a significant portion of the population still relies on legacy devices.
“The affordability of 5G-compatible devices will play a critical role in mass adoption,” Dhanapala noted.
He further expressed his belief that satellite internet would be a gamechanger for remote areas.
“Satellite-based connectivity can provide broadband access to communities where traditional infrastructure is impractical. However, robust regulations are needed to ensure it complements existing networks rather than disrupting them,” he stated, adding: “The necessary equipment has been provided and the licence has been activated.”
Affordability
The introduction of Starlink is expected to increase competition in the ISP market. Currently, Dialog Axiata and SLT dominate the industry, with other players also contributing to the stiff competition. However, Starlink’s low-latency satellite-based service may appeal to high-end consumers and industries requiring ultra-fast, stable connections.
“The price and quality will be determined by the market itself. Some users will be willing to pay a premium for a high-quality facility, whether for industrial or domestic use. This competition will encourage existing providers to enhance their service quality,” Dhanapala explained.
Affordability is another major focus for the Government. The TRCSL has successfully worked with operators to introduce budget-friendly internet packages for students, low-income households, and small businesses.
“By negotiating with telecom providers, we have ensured that essential connectivity remains within reach for all citizens,” Herath explained.
Dhanapala added that affordability went beyond pricing. “Digital literacy programmes are equally important. We are working on initiatives that educate citizens on how to make the most of digital services, ensuring that access translates into meaningful engagement,” he said.
Cybersecurity concerns
Cybersecurity is another growing concern, with new regulations being introduced to strengthen protections.
“The new cybersecurity regulatory framework will require ISPs to adopt stricter security protocols and comply with national and international cybersecurity standards,” Herath stated.
The TRCSL will oversee compliance, issue penalties for violations, and coordinate incident responses.
Meanwhile, Dhanapala emphasised the importance of proactive cybersecurity measures. “As Sri Lanka digitises its economy, cyber threats will only increase. We are working closely with ISPs and other stakeholders to build a secure and resilient digital ecosystem,” he said.
In addition to infrastructure development, the Government is taking steps to ensure that high-speed internet remains affordable for businesses and households.
Dhanapala noted that several upcoming initiatives – including the rollout of a Government payment network known as GovPay and a unique digital ID to replace the manual National Identity Card (NIC) – would require widespread high-speed internet accessibility. These measures are expected to drive the adoption of digital services, further integrating internet usage into everyday life.
He further expressed his belief that consumer rights must be at the heart of Sri Lanka’s digital transformation. “Fair pricing, transparent billing, and quality service should be non-negotiable. Regulations must evolve to keep up with technological advancements,” he stated.
Sri Lanka Computer Emergency Readiness Team (SLCERT) Lead Information Security Engineer Charuka Damunupola informed The Sunday Morning that there was nominal risk of such events.
“We have not encountered such complaints in the past, but privacy is a major concern in this day and age. We are aware that minor details of online activity may be collected, but a major security breach is unlikely,” he said, addressing the risks of satellite technology.