On May 16, 2026, Bangladesh marked World Telecommunication and Information Society Day, highlighting the nation’s rapid digital transformation under the ‘Smart Bangladesh’ vision. However, despite significant progress, the digital divide remains a pressing issue, with service quality, affordability, and cybersecurity concerns persisting.
The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) reports nearly 190 million mobile subscribers and over 130 million internet users, making telecom one of the country’s fastest-growing sectors. Yet, users frequently encounter unstable connections and inconsistent speeds, particularly outside major urban centers.
In rural areas, the digital gap is more pronounced. Rabeya Khatun, an entrepreneur from Kaliganj in Jhenaidah, expressed frustration over unreliable network coverage affecting her online business operations. Similarly, Tanvir Hasan, a student in Dhaka, highlighted the challenges posed by unstable internet connections during online classes and research activities.
Experts emphasize that while infrastructure has expanded, maintaining service quality remains a significant challenge. The rollout of 4G has improved access, but speed and consistency are still uneven. Furthermore, the rapid digital adoption has not been matched by increased public awareness of cybersecurity risks, leaving users vulnerable to various digital threats.
Cybersecurity expert Arif Mohiuddin stresses the importance of robust cybersecurity infrastructure and digital literacy for sustainable digital progress. Despite limited 5G deployment, nationwide adoption faces hurdles due to infrastructure gaps and high investment costs. Addressing these challenges is crucial for bridging the urban-rural divide and ensuring inclusive digital growth.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, May 18, 2026
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