The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has set aside 500 MHz of spectrum for auction to roll out 5G. But the process has stalled due to the unresolved PTCL-Telenor Deal Delay and court cases linked to the spectrum. PTA Chairman Hafeez Rehman confirmed the deadlock while chairing a meeting of the National Assembly’s Standing Committee.
Pakistan’s Internet Faces Major Hurdles
The Chairman admitted Pakistan cannot run modern 4G and 5G without a strong fiber backbone. Currently, only 275 MHz of spectrum is in use. This shortfall causes frequent call drops and slow internet. He stressed that boosting fiber networks is vital to fix poor connectivity.
Lawmakers Push for Faster Decisions
The Standing Committee meeting took place in the National Assembly Committee Room. Members Zulfiqar Ali Bhatti, Dr. Mahesh Kumar Malani, Sadiq Ali Memon, Ahmad Saleem Siddiqui, Pullain Baloch, Sher Ali Arbab, and others joined the session. The committee discussed why the spectrum auction is delayed and highlighted that no clear decision has been made on the Ufone-Telenor merger. They agreed to put the PTCL-Telenor Deal Delay on the next meeting’s agenda.
Baluchistan Needs Better Connectivity
Chairman Syed Amin ul Haque said every citizen in Pakistan, including Baluchistan, deserves equal access to mobile networks and the internet. But security concerns block broadband in certain districts. He directed the Ministry of IT, security agencies, PTA, and public reps to plan where broadband can safely expand.
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Shutdowns Impact Digital Goals
Federal IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja gave updates on the Ministry’s spending and projects like Islamabad’s IT Park and the One Patient One ID plan. She also confirmed that internet shutdowns in places like Panjgur follow security instructions. The Secretary of Interior clarified that they recommend shutdowns but do not issue direct orders.
Billions Lost to Poor Service
Committee members said call drops and poor signals are hurting people everywhere. Syed Amin ul Haque said telecom companies act like money-making machines while the government loses billions due to poor service. He urged PTA to tighten quality rules.
USF and Ignite Push for Digital Pakistan
USF CEO Chaudhry Mudassar Naveed briefed the committee on broadband projects for remote areas. IGNITE’s Adeel Sheikh shared updates on the Cyber Security Hackathon and DG Skills programs to boost digital skills.
LDI Dues Still Unresolved
A long-running LDI case also surfaced. PTA Chairman Hafeez Rehman revealed that nine LDI operators owe over Rs. 70 billion since 2004. Some major companies refuse to pay in installments. PTA lacks authority to offer such deals. A subcommittee led by Sher Ali Arbab will revisit the case and report back after hearing all sides.
Pakistan’s 5G Future Depends on Quick Fixes
Pakistan’s dream of a digital economy and smooth 5G launch depends on solving the PTCL-Telenor Deal Delay, clearing court hurdles, expanding fiber, and closing internet gaps. The Standing Committee wants clear solutions and faster action to end costly delays and poor coverage.
