According to the Press Secretary, Starlink is being introduced in Bangladesh to ensure a permanent end to internet shutdowns

Bangladesh Invites Starlink to Ensure Uninterrupted Internet Access

• The primary objective of launching Elon Musk’s Starlink in Bangladesh is to permanently eliminate internet shutdowns.
• Shafiqul Alam, Press Secretary to the Chief Advisor of the interim government, made this announcement on his verified Facebook page on Tuesday.

Ending Internet Blackouts

• Alam stated that during its 16-year rule, the Sheikh Hasina government frequently shut down the internet to suppress protests and opposition movements.
• These shutdowns negatively impacted millions of freelancers, with some losing contracts and jobs permanently.
• The introduction of Starlink will prevent future governments from completely cutting off internet access, ensuring uninterrupted service for BPO companies, call centers, and freelancers.

Invitation to Elon Musk

• Starlink, owned by Elon Musk, is a satellite-based high-speed internet service.
• On February 13, Bangladesh’s interim Chief Advisor, Professor Muhammad Yunus, held a video call with Elon Musk to discuss the launch of Starlink in the country.
• Yunus emphasized the importance of Starlink for national development and invited Musk to visit Bangladesh for the service’s inauguration. Musk responded positively, saying, "I am looking forward to it."

Benefits of Starlink in Bangladesh

• Starlink’s satellite-based internet can bridge the digital divide between urban and rural areas, enabling high-speed internet access even in remote regions.
• The service can be particularly valuable in disaster recovery, allowing quick restoration of communication networks.
• Young professionals and freelancers in villages will gain better access to online job opportunities.

How Starlink Works

• Unlike traditional submarine cable-based internet, Starlink provides service via a low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite network.
• SpaceX has already deployed 6,994 Starlink satellites, with plans to expand coverage further.
• To access Starlink, users need a receiver dish, router, and other equipment, which connect directly to satellites.

Internet Speed Comparison

• Starlink offers download speeds between 25 and 220 Mbps, with most users experiencing speeds above 100 Mbps.
• Bangladesh’s current mobile internet speed averages 40 Mbps, while broadband speeds are around 51 Mbps.
• Many rural areas struggle with slow connectivity, which Starlink aims to resolve.

Cost of Starlink Service

• The Starlink kit (including an antenna, router, and cables) costs between $349 and $599 (approx. 43,000 to 74,000 BDT).
• The monthly subscription starts at $120 (approx. 15,000 BDT), with higher costs for business users.
• Prices vary by country, and local adjustments may be made for the Bangladeshi market.

The launch of Starlink in Bangladesh is expected to revolutionize internet access, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity and fostering economic growth, especially in the freelancing and IT sectors.