Internet freedom in Pakistan

[FearlessRoar]

Internet slowdown in Pakistan forces int’l companies to relocate operations

International companies have started relocating their operations due to the recent slowdown in internet services in Pakistan.

According to official documents, WhatsApp has moved its session server routing abroad following the recent internet disruptions.

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) stated that the relocation of WhatsApp’s Content Delivery Network (CDN) outside the country has caused service disruptions for users. Many WhatsApp users faced difficulties in connecting and maintaining communication.

PTA claims that internet services have improved across fixed-line and mobile networks in the country.

Over the past month, fixed-line internet services have reportedly improved by two tiers, while Pakistan’s global ranking for fixed-line internet speed currently stands at 139th.

Mobile network services have improved by three tiers, with Pakistan now ranked 97th globally in mobile internet speed, according to PTA. Despite these improvements, the overall impact of slow internet remains a concern for businesses and users alike.

Meanwhile, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has confirmed that talks between the government and Starlink are underway regarding the issuance of a license for satellite services.

According to PTA, the process is currently in its initial stages, as per Starlink’s request.

The PTA is reviewing the technical requirements for Starlink’s license, while the National Space Agency is examining the proposal under the national space policy.

The PTA emphasized that several technical aspects, including bandwidth, uplinking, and gateways, must be evaluated before issuing a license.

This procedure applies to all foreign satellite service providers, and regulatory approval will be required after obtaining clearance from the space agency.

Internet slowdown in Pakistan forces int'l companies to relocate operations

ISLAMABAD: International companies have started relocating their operations due to the recent slowdown in internet services in Pakistan.

arynews.tv

 

[FearlessRoar]

Elon Musk, China on KP govt’s radar for resolving internet crisis

Shafqat Iqbal, Special Assistant for Science and Technology to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government, announced plans to seek help from Elon Musk and China to address the region’s growing internet connectivity issues, ARY News reported.

In an exclusive conversation with ARY News, Iqbal highlighted the critical state of internet speed in the province. “If Maryam Nawaz can bypass federal authorities and visit China, why can’t we take similar steps?” he remarked.

Iqbal criticized the federal government’s handling of the internet crisis, expressing disbelief at the explanation offered by the federal minister, who attributed slow internet speeds to increased user load.

He added, “We have repeatedly written to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), urging them to address the internet issues in IT departments, but the problem has not been taken seriously.”

Iqbal’s proactive approach aims to bring innovative solutions by collaborating with international technology leaders, reflecting his determination to resolve the persistent connectivity challenges faced by internet users in the region.

Earlier, the SPACEX chief Elon Musk stated that he is awaiting approval from Pakistan government regarding the launch of Starlink in the country.

As per details, a conversation took place on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) between Pakistani social media user Sanam Jamali and Elon Musk, regarding the launch of Starlink in Pakistan.

As per details, Sanam requested Musk to introduce Starlink in Pakistan, stating that it could pave the way for a better future, providing internet connectivity and opportunities for citizens to move forward.

Musk responded, stating that he is awaiting approval from the Pakistani government to launch Starlink in the country. Starlink, owned by SpaceX, provides internet services through a vast network of satellites.

Later, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) confirmed that talks between the government and Starlink are underway regarding the issuance of a license for satellite services.

According to PTA, the process is currently in its initial stages, as per Starlink’s request.

Elon Musk, China on KP govt’s radar for resolving internet crisis

The KP government, announced plans to seek help from Elon Musk and China to address the region's growing internet connectivity issues

arynews.tv

 

[Bewal Express]

Internet slowdown in Pakistan forces int’l companies to relocate operations

International companies have started relocating their operations due to the recent slowdown in internet services in Pakistan.

According to official documents, WhatsApp has moved its session server routing abroad following the recent internet disruptions.

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) stated that the relocation of WhatsApp’s Content Delivery Network (CDN) outside the country has caused service disruptions for users. Many WhatsApp users faced difficulties in connecting and maintaining communication.

PTA claims that internet services have improved across fixed-line and mobile networks in the country.

Over the past month, fixed-line internet services have reportedly improved by two tiers, while Pakistan’s global ranking for fixed-line internet speed currently stands at 139th.

Mobile network services have improved by three tiers, with Pakistan now ranked 97th globally in mobile internet speed, according to PTA. Despite these improvements, the overall impact of slow internet remains a concern for businesses and users alike.

Meanwhile, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has confirmed that talks between the government and Starlink are underway regarding the issuance of a license for satellite services.

According to PTA, the process is currently in its initial stages, as per Starlink’s request.

The PTA is reviewing the technical requirements for Starlink’s license, while the National Space Agency is examining the proposal under the national space policy.

The PTA emphasized that several technical aspects, including bandwidth, uplinking, and gateways, must be evaluated before issuing a license.

This procedure applies to all foreign satellite service providers, and regulatory approval will be required after obtaining clearance from the space agency.

Internet slowdown in Pakistan forces int'l companies to relocate operations

ISLAMABAD: International companies have started relocating their operations due to the recent slowdown in internet services in Pakistan.

arynews.tv

@emranabbas
PTIs fault? Remember when you gave that gem of an explanation. Would you like to apologise for your blatant lie. Maybe you need to spend less time counting shoe sizes and comment on things you understand

 

[FearlessRoar]

Lahoris can now enjoy free Wi-Fi at these 200 locations​

The initiative includes 270 Wi-Fi hotspots, offering citizens internet access at key locations in cities such as Lahore, Kasur, Sheikhupura, Nankana Sahib, Sialkot, Gujrat, Jhelum, Attock, Sahiwal, Okara, and Murree.

“Over 13 million users have already utilised more than 265 terabytes of data,” a PSCA spokesperson said. The free Wi-Fi aims to simplify daily life for residents by providing accessible internet connectivity.

The service is not intended for video streaming or entertainment purposes, the spokesperson clarified, adding that the project aligns with the chief minister's vision to make Punjab a digital province.

“The free Wi-Fi initiative is part of efforts to digitise Punjab and provide modern facilities to its citizens,” the spokesperson added.

Lahoris can now enjoy free Wi-Fi at these 200 locations | The Express Tribune

The service is not intended for video streaming or entertainment purposes

tribune.com.pk

 

[Cricket Warrior]

Internet slowdowns due to infrastructure problems, says PTA

After blaming increase in use of the virtual private networks (VPNs), the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has attributed internet slowdowns throughout Pakistan to telecom infrastructure, The News reported.

A PTA report claims that insufficient fiberisation, power cuts, and telecom infrastructure are to blame for the slow internet speed.

The 18-year-old web management system, according to the PTA, is just concerned with managing gray traffic and has no role in reducing internet speeds.

The report said that 42% of telecom sites across Pakistan are working without generators due to which more than 21,000 sites suffer from power outages and internet and telecom services are affected during power loadshedding.

Over 24,885 sites have generators installed but insufficient power backup, the PTA report said, adding that generators and other critical equipment were stolen at more than 739 telecom sites in recent years. The PTA claimed that 147 sites were attacked by terrorists in the last five years, damaging telecom infrastructure and eventually the internet.

The government has long been attributing slow internet to various reasons, while many experts believe that "firewall" could be one of the reasons for its slow speed.

https://www.geo.tv/latest/585438-internet-slowdowns-due-to-infrastructure-problems-says-pta

 

[hassan918]

Proposed PECA amendments: Three-year jail, fines for disinformation​

The Pakistani government has moved to strengthen the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) with new amendments targeting fake news and unlawful online content.

The draft legislation, titled the Electronic Crimes Prevention (Amendment) Act 2025, proposes stringent penalties, including up to three years in prison and fines of Rs2 million for spreading disinformation, Express News reported.

The amendments also outline the establishment of a Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA), which will have sweeping powers to regulate social media and online platforms.

The authority will be empowered to block or remove unlawful content and ensure compliance with regulatory guidelines.

Key features

1. Expanded definitions:
   The amendments redefine “social media platforms” to include websites, applications, and tools facilitating digital communication. This expanded scope also includes any individual or entity operating such platforms within Pakistan.
2. Authority formation:
   The DRPA will consist of a chairperson and six members, including secretaries from IT, information, and the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). The body will have jurisdiction to investigate complaints, issue directives for content removal, and recommend measures to ensure digital ethics.
3. Content regulation:
   The authority will regulate a wide range of content deemed unlawful, including blasphemy, hate speech, incitement to violence, obscenity, defamation, and material against the defence or security of Pakistan. A comprehensive list of 16 prohibited content categories has been included in the amendments.
4. Compliance mandates:
   Social media platforms may be required to register with the government, establish local offices, and appoint representatives in Pakistan. Companies will also be given deadlines to remove content flagged by the authority or face penalties.

Mixed views on amendments

The government asserts that these changes are necessary to address the rise of fake news and hate speech, which have contributed to public unrest and societal divisions.

While proponents of the legislation highlight its potential to curb online disinformation and ensure accountability, critics fear the law could lead to censorship or misuse by authorities.

The government has assured that the amendments will be implemented transparently, with due safeguards to protect citizens’ rights.

The draft legislation is expected to be tabled in Parliament soon, marking a significant step in the country’s efforts to regulate the digital landscape.

Source: The Express Tribune

 

[hassan918]

Pakistan to get world-class internet services by 2026​

Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) has successfully connected Pakistan to the Africa-1 submarine cable, a major step towards strengthening the country's digital and telecom infrastructure.

The high-capacity cable system, capable of transmitting large amounts of data, has been linked to PTCL's exchange in Karachi, ensuring faster and more reliable international connectivity.

PTCL has formally joined the Africa-1 Cable System Consortium, a collaboration aimed at enhancing Pakistan’s access to global digital hubs and reinforcing its telecommunication infrastructure.

The Africa-1 cable system spans 10,000 kilometres and integrates the latest digital technologies. It will connect Pakistan to strategically important locations, including:

• Saudi Arabia
• United Arab Emirates
• Egypt
• Sudan
• Algeria
• France
• Kenya
• Djibouti

Speaking about the project, PTCL’s Group Vice President for International Business, Syed Muhammad Shoaib, emphasized that this initiative aligns with Pakistan’s ‘Digital Vision 2030’.

“We are committed to bridging the digital divide, fostering innovation across various sectors, and strengthening the country’s economy. The Africa-1 cable system will play a pivotal role in enhancing internet speed, reliability, and global connectivity,” he stated.

The Africa-1 cable system is expected to become operational by early 2026, providing world-class internet services to businesses and consumers in Pakistan.

Source: SAMAA

 

[Cricket Warrior]

Starlink gets NOC to ‘launch’ services in Pakistan

Pakistan all set to enter the satellite internet spectrum as Starlink, a global satellite internet provider, has obtained a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to launch services in Pakistan, ARY News reported.

According to sources, Starlink has fulfilled all the requirements set by the regulatory board, the NOC was issued by Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board after clearance from the Interior Ministry.

Sources revealed that the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is also expected to issue a license to Starlink within the next two weeks.

Starlink has already submitted its technical and business plans to the PTA and has registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) and the Pakistan Software Export Board.

The company has completed three stages of registration in Pakistan, with the final stage being the issuance of a license by the PTA.

Once the license is issued, Starlink will be able to launch its services in Pakistan, providing high-speed internet connectivity to remote and underserved areas. The company’s services are designed to be seamless and will not disrupt existing networks.

Pakistan introduced its National Satellite Policy in 2023 and Space Activities Rules in 2024 to strengthen space communication.

Starlink gets NOC to 'launch' services in Pakistan

Pakistan all set to enter the satellite internet spectrum as Starlink, a global satellite internet provider, has obtained a No Objection Certificate (NOC)

arynews.tv

 

[BouncerGuy]

Lahore High Court summons AGP in pleas against X ban

The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Tuesday summoned the Attorney General of Pakistan (AGP) Mansoor Usman Awan in a case pertaining to the ban on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter).

Access to X has been disrupted since February 17, 2024 when former Rawalpindi commissioner Liaquat Chattha accused the chief election commissioner and a top Supreme Court judge of being involved in rigging the February 8 general elections.

Rights bodies and journalists’ organisations have condemned the muzzling of social media, while internet service providers have also lamented losses due to disruptions. The United States had also called on Pakistan to lift restrictions on social media platforms.

Tuesday’s proceedings were presided over by a three-member bench headed by LHC Chief Justice Aalia Neelum. The three-member bench also included Justice Farooq Haider and Justice Ali Zia Bajwa.

The petitions against the ban have been filed by journalist Shakir Mahmood and others. The federal government, the Ministry of Law, the Ministry of Information and others had been made parties in the petitions.

In the previous hearing, the LHC had given a final opportunity to the federal government to resolve the issue of the ban on X and directed the authorities concerned to propose a solution and identify who will implement it.

Today’s hearing

“The attorney general should tell what is the legal status of the notification of the ban on X,” Justice Haider asked during the proceedings.

“A report has been submitted by the Pakistan Telecom Authority (PTA) in this case,” Additional Attorney General (AAG) Mirza Nasar Ahmed responded.

“The PTA and the federal government are not on the same page on Twitter’s [X] shutdown,” Advocate Azhar Siddique, the petitioners’ lawyer said.

“There is no concept of one page in the court; you and the court are also not on the same page, “ Justice Neelum responded.

“There was no written response from the federal government in this regard,” Advocate Siddique added, questioning the grounds on which the PTA had shut down X.

“The court had asked for a list of government members using Twitter [X], which was not provided,” Advocate Siddique remarked.

“The list of those government members who are using X was sought [but] it is not possible for us to provide such a list,” AAG Ahmed responded.

He continued that the case should be fixed for hearing on April 17. “The attorney general will appear in court on that date,” the AAG added.

The court summoned the AGP for assistance on April 17. “The AGP should appear before the court prepared and shed light on all legal matters, “ Justice Neelum remarked.

DAWN NEWS

 

[BouncerGuy]

https://twitter.com/x/status/1924400485806539083

 

[Cricket Warrior]

PKCERT issues urgent alert for social media users

The National Cyber Emergency Response Team (PKCERT) has issued a high-priority alert, warning social media users about a major data breach involving platforms such as Google, Microsoft, and Facebook, ARY News reported.

According to the alert, over 1.8 billion records from various social media applications have been leaked. Among these, 184 million passwords are confirmed to have been compromised.

The team has strongly advised users to immediately change passwords of all sensitive apps and accounts. Furthermore, users are urged to enable two-factor authentication (2FA) as an additional layer of security.

The alert also warns users to avoid clicking on suspicious links and to regularly monitor their accounts for any unusual activity.

Authorities are actively monitoring the situation and have called on the public to stay vigilant and take necessary cyber safety precautions.

PKCERT issues urgent alert for social media users

The National Cyber Emergency Response Team (PKCERT) has issued a high-priority alert, warning social media users about a major data breach involving

arynews.tv

 

[Cricket Warrior]

FIA issues strong clarification on closure of YouTube channels

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has issued a strong clarification regarding media reports falsely attributing recent judicial orders to the FIA concerning the closure of YouTube channels.

According to the official statement, the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has now been formally established and is fully operational. All investigations and legal proceedings related to cybercrime now fall exclusively under the jurisdiction of the NCCIA, not the FIA.

“The news circulating in the media, claiming that a judicial magistrate has ordered the FIA to shut down 27 Pakistani YouTube channels, is completely baseless and inaccurate,” the FIA spokesperson stated.

The clarification emphasizes that the court orders in question were issued on the request of the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), and FIA has not been mentioned anywhere in the judicial directives.

“It is essential to understand that FIA and NCCIA are two separate and independent institutions. Cybercrime investigations and related legal matters are no longer under the mandate of the FIA,” the spokesperson added.

FIA issues strong clarification on closure of YouTube channels

Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has issued a strong clarification regarding media reports concerning the closure of YouTube channels

arynews.tv

 

[Bewal Express]

FIA issues strong clarification on closure of YouTube channels

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has issued a strong clarification regarding media reports falsely attributing recent judicial orders to the FIA concerning the closure of YouTube channels.

According to the official statement, the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has now been formally established and is fully operational. All investigations and legal proceedings related to cybercrime now fall exclusively under the jurisdiction of the NCCIA, not the FIA.

“The news circulating in the media, claiming that a judicial magistrate has ordered the FIA to shut down 27 Pakistani YouTube channels, is completely baseless and inaccurate,” the FIA spokesperson stated.

The clarification emphasizes that the court orders in question were issued on the request of the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), and FIA has not been mentioned anywhere in the judicial directives.

“It is essential to understand that FIA and NCCIA are two separate and independent institutions. Cybercrime investigations and related legal matters are no longer under the mandate of the FIA,” the spokesperson added.

FIA issues strong clarification on closure of YouTube channels

Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has issued a strong clarification regarding media reports concerning the closure of YouTube channels

arynews.tv

27 YouTubers have been banned as per reports. All this after all the TV stations have been nationalised. And the impact of nationalising the tv stations has been zero but it's cost billions

 

[Cricket Warrior]

PTA can block platforms but not specific content: Chairman

Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Chairman Hafeezur Rehman informed the National Assembly Standing Committee on Parliamentary Affairs that while the authority can block entire social media platforms, it lacks the technical capacity to remove specific content.

He said only the United States and Israel were currently capable of blocking specific content from a website.

During a briefing on actions against defamatory and offensive content, the PTA chairman highlighted the complexities involved in regulating digital platforms.

“Government institutions and citizens are provided access to register complaints. About 80% of defamatory content is removed through coordination with social media companies,” he stated.

Rehman also revealed that a seven-member delegation from Meta (Facebook’s parent company) is currently stationed at the PTA office to improve cooperation. He added that there was a difference between the domestic laws and international guidelines.

He acknowledged the ongoing challenge of VPN usage in bypassing content restrictions, noting that over 40 VPN services are actively used in Pakistan. “When users install VPNs, they bypass our entire content regulation system,” he said.

The chairman also confirmed that social media platform X (formerly Twitter) was blocked in February 2024 following government instructions.

PTA can block platforms but not specific content: Chairman

PTA Chairman Hafeezur Rehman told the NA committee that Pakistan can block social media platforms but not specific content. Over 500 people have been arrested for online defamation, while concerns grow over TikTok and VPN use.

www.samaa.tv

 

[Cricket Warrior]

5G is Coming Soon and Satellite Internet Will Follow: PTA

Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Chairman Major General (Retd) Hafeez ur Rehman has stressed the need to embrace rapidly emerging technologies while ensuring public trust and robust cybersecurity measures.

Speaking at a cybersecurity workshop and awards ceremony, the PTA chief said the authority is actively working to roll out 5G services in Pakistan, while noting that China is already discussing 6G. He emphasised that cybersecurity is critical for 5G implementation.

“Artificial intelligence is a powerful and effective tool,” he said, “but it is also being misused for creating fake audio and video messages. Preventing financial fraud is a challenge for all of us, and PTA is playing an active role in tackling it.”

The chairman revealed that rules for the Pakistan Satellite Internet Regulatory Body (PSARB) are ready, and satellite internet services will be launched in Pakistan soon. He underscored the importance of data sovereignty and protection, secure internet and social media use, and safeguarding citizens’ privacy.

“We must assure the nation that we are the protectors of your privacy and data,” he affirmed.

5G is Coming Soon and Satellite Internet Will Follow: PTA

Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Chairman Major General (Retd) Hafeez ur Rehman has stressed the need to embrace rapidly emerging technologies

propakistani.pk

 

[Cricket Warrior]

Internet outage causes extensive internet disruption in Pakistan

Heavy rains and severe weather conditions across Pakistan have caused an extensive internet disruption in Pakistan, causing the users and online businesses inconveniences, ARY News reported.

On Tuesday evening, users across Pakistan, including Karachi, faced extensive connectivity issues, with Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) services facing major disruptions.

The internet disruption in Pakistan affected both online and call services, causing problems to individuals and businesses relying on digital platforms.

According to the reports from major cities of Pakistan, including Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad and Peshawar, slow or no browsing speed, connection disruptions and outage in online services have been frequently highlighted.

Online workers and business personnel expressed frustration over the unavailability of essential online applications and platforms.

IT and Telecom Minister, Shaza Fatima accepted the issue, stating that professional officials are investigating are working to fix the root cause. “We will inform the public as soon as the reasons are identified and solutions are given,” she assured.

According to industry sources, the internet disruption in Pakistan may be connected to a technical fault in the fiber optic backbone or issues with main internet providers responsible for international online traffic.

PTCL has to release an official timeline for complete restoration, though technical teams are actively working to resolve the problem.

The internet outage during the severe weather conditions, and rains has raised the concerns over Pakistan’s IT infrastructure, especially most of the individuals use internet for their remote work, education, communicating their relatives abroad or e-commerce.

Internet outage causes extensive internet disruption in Pakistan

KARACHI: Heavy rains and severe weather conditions across Pakistan have caused an extensive internet disruption in Pakistan, causing the users and online

arynews.tv

 

[Cricket Warrior]

Pakistan’s Internet is About to Get a Major Upgrade

Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, has announced that Pakistan will install three new submarine internet cables to enhance the country’s international connectivity and improve internet speeds nationwide.

Speaking to the media, the minister said, “This is not just about faster internet, it’s about opening new frontiers for innovation, investment, and inclusion.” She emphasized that digital infrastructure is essential for national progress and global competitiveness.

The upcoming submarine cable systems are expected to significantly increase Pakistan’s bandwidth capacity. According to the Ministry of IT, these projects will address growing user demand and reduce reliance on existing cable systems, which have previously suffered outages, including AAE-1 and SMW-4.

Pakistan is also participating in global subsea projects such as:

2Africa, which landed in Karachi in late 2024 and will go live by the end of 2025 with a capacity of 180 Tbps.

Africa-1, PEACE, and MGG-1, among others, which together are projected to add over 26 Tbps of bandwidth.

Pakistan’s Internet is About to Get a Major Upgrade

Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, has announced that Pakistan will install three new submarine

propakistani.pk

 

[Cricket Warrior]

Uncertainty looms over launch of 5G services in country

The future of 5G services in Pakistan has remained uncertain for the past four and a half years.

According to details surfaced on Sunday, despite repeated announcements and multiple deadlines, the service has not commenced, nor has any substantial progress been made towards spectrum auction.

The auction, initially planned for July and August this year, could not be completed. Sources divulged that in the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication, court cases have emerged as the primary obstacle to the rollout of 5G services, leading to the postponement of the spectrum auction until December.

Sources privy to the development added that mobile operators had set a condition for participation requiring a "clean spectrum". However, the government, despite various efforts, has failed to have the legal cases resolved.

The uncertain situation regarding the merger of Telenor and PTCL has been identified as another major cause of the delay.

Documents from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority stated that out of the 606 MHz spectrum offered for auction, 151.6 MHz is entangled in various legal disputes. The most contentious is the 2600 MHz band, of which 140 MHz out of a total 194 MHz is under dispute. Reportedly, 140 MHz is held illegally by Southern Networks Limited, while a case concerning the spectrum usage by an international mobile company remains pending in court.

Senior officials from the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication said that the aim had been to hold the auction in July or August, but legal complications made this unfeasible.

The officials said: "Efforts are ongoing with the assistance of the Ministry of Law and the Attorney General of Pakistan to resolve these cases and ensure the auction can proceed by December 2025."

Uncertainty persists over launch of 5G services in Pakistan

According to details surfaced on Sunday, despite repeated announcements and multiple deadlines, the service has not commenced, nor has any substantial progress been made towards spectrum auction.

www.samaa.tv

 

[Cricket Warrior]

Pakistan weighs 5G spectrum auction amid calls for price cut

The government has intensified consultations on the long-awaited 5G spectrum auction, with telecom operators and global industry representatives urging Islamabad to lower spectrum prices and address regulatory hurdles.

The Spectrum Auction Advisory Committee, led by Finance Minister Aurangzeb, met telecom operators and a delegation from the GSM Association (GSMA) in Islamabad to discuss the framework of the upcoming 5G auction.

Telecom operators submitted their proposals, highlighting the high cost of spectrum and heavy taxation as major obstacles to network rollout. They stressed that unless pricing issues are addressed, the country risks slower adoption of 5G technology.

Julian Gorman, GSMA’s Asia Pacific Head, told journalists after the meeting that Pakistan stood to lose between $1.8 billion and $4.3 billion in economic benefits over the next five years if spectrum release was delayed further.

He cautioned that spectrum costs in Pakistan were among the highest in the world, consuming nearly 20% of telecom operators’ revenue, which in turn affected network coverage and internet speeds.

Pakistan weighs 5G spectrum auction amid calls for price cut

Pakistan consults telecom operators and GSMA on 5G spectrum auction. Industry calls for lower spectrum prices, flexible payments, and tax relief to unlock economic benefits.

www.samaa.tv

 

[BouncerGuy]

Interior ministry suspends mobile internet services in Islamabad, Rawalpindi

The Ministry of Interior has directed the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to suspend 3G and 4G services in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, it emerged on Friday.

A directive dated October 9 and addressed to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) chairman stated the ministry had “accorded approval to suspend 3G/4G services in the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, starting from 12am tonight till further orders.”

The letter, a copy of which is available with Dawn.com, directed the PTA to take “further necessary action” in this regard in coordination with the Islamabad commissioner and police chief, and the Rawalpindi regional police officer.

The ministry did not provide a reason for suspending services but the development comes as the Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan’s (TLP) have planned a march on the US embassy today.

On Thursday, Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry said that the government always allowed peaceful marchers and demonstration, however, the TLP had not sought permission for its protest in the capital.

Late on Thursday, violence had also broken out in Punjab, after police launched a crackdown on the headquarters of TLP in a bid to arrest its chief, Saad Rizvi. The clashes left several people injured, including around a dozen policemen.

Traffic plan

Islamabad traffic police also issued a diversion plan, referring to the “law and order” situation in the Faizabad area — the historic site of several TLP sit-ins.

The plan, posted on Islamabad police’s X account, said the entry of all heavy vehicles in the federal capital would not be allowed until further orders and detailed the diversion routes for smaller vehicles around the Faizabad area.

It was earlier reported that in anticipation of the TLP protest, the Islamabad administration has also begun placing shipping containers at Faizabad Interchange.

DAWN NEWS