Pakistan’s Telecom Sector Faces Spectrum Shortage and Legal Challenges
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s telecom sector is under scrutiny as the Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunications raised concerns over long-delayed 5G auctions, unresolved legal disputes, and pending payments from state-owned PTCL. The session, chaired by Senator Palwasha Khan, also addressed the potential exit of Telenor from the country.
5G Spectrum Auction Delays
Ministry of IT officials briefed the committee on preparations for the 5G auction, highlighting Pakistan’s 600 MHz spectrum, equal to Bangladesh, while neighboring Saudi Arabia already operates 1,200 MHz. Officials warned that without expanding spectrum availability, Pakistan risks lagging behind as the world moves toward 6G technology.
Senator Humayun Mohmand urged the ministry to push courts to resolve spectrum-related disputes that have stalled progress. PTA officials noted that a consultant had recommended settling Sun TV spectrum disputes before the auction proceeds.
Senator Anusha Rahman proposed including NAB and AGPR in the Auction Advisory Committee to ensure transparency and avoid future audit or corruption issues. PTA officials confirmed NAB’s inclusion is already under consideration.
Telenor-Ufone Merger and Service Concerns
The committee discussed the pending Telenor-Ufone merger, warning that Telenor’s exit could disrupt telecom services. Senator Rahman criticized PTA policies for contributing to Telenor’s decision and urged the government to engage the company directly to prevent service disruptions.
PTCL’s Pending Payments and Audits
Sharp criticism was directed at PTCL for failing to clear $800 million owed to the government and for not conducting audits through the Auditor General of Pakistan (AGP) despite Supreme Court directives. Ministry officials said PTCL’s current management shows little interest in resolving these issues, while AGP representatives emphasized the company’s legal obligation to comply with audits.
The Senate committee stressed that resolving spectrum disputes, ensuring transparency, and safeguarding telecom services are crucial for Pakistan’s digital growth and investor confidence.
