ISLAMABAD
February 13, 2026
The National Assembly Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunication has unanimously recommended the Pakistan Telecommunication (Re-organisation) (Amendment) Bill, 2026, introducing key changes aimed at facilitating telecom infrastructure deployment and strengthening governance frameworks within the sector.
The proposed amendments focus on simplifying Right of Way (RoW) access for telecom licensees, enabling faster installation and maintenance of infrastructure such as fibre-optic cables, towers, and related equipment. Under the revised framework, no RoW charges will apply to public entities or commercial private land, including housing societies and cantonment areas, while access to individual private property will remain subject to mutual agreement between parties.
The bill also introduces defined approval timelines for public authorities, including provisions for deemed approvals if responses are not issued within the specified period. A dispute resolution mechanism has been included, allowing the government to appoint senior officials to resolve conflicts within a defined timeframe, aiming to reduce delays in infrastructure rollout.
In addition to RoW reforms, the amendments restructure the governance of the National Telecommunication Corporation (NTC), bringing it under the State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) Act, 2023. The new framework introduces a Board of Directors comprising independent members, ex officio representatives, and private sector participation, alongside strengthened financial oversight and audit compliance requirements.
During the session, the committee also reviewed the Electronic Transactions (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which seeks to modernize authentication mechanisms and align legal frameworks with the growing volume of digital transactions. However, consideration of the bill was deferred pending further political consultation and consensus.
The proposed reforms are intended to accelerate telecom infrastructure development, improve regulatory clarity, and strengthen institutional governance as Pakistan continues to expand digital connectivity and electronic services nationwide.
