The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has issued a consultation paper proposing tougher rollout requirements for Telecom Infrastructure Provider (TIP) licensees, aiming to ensure meaningful nationwide deployment of critical telecom infrastructure rather than allowing licensees to remain inactive.
Under the proposed framework, TIP operators must meet one of several mandatory rollout categories over a multi-year period:
• Earth Stations / Satellite Hubs
At least one Earth Station or Satellite Hub must be established within the first year.
• Optical Fiber Cable
Licensees must deploy 60 km of fiber annually, sustained over five years.
• Towers / Radio Communication Links
Mandatory installation of 10 towers or radio links per year over five years.
• Submarine Cable Landing Stations
Year 1: Secure Permit in Principle (PiP)
Year 2: Establish the landing station and apply for commencement certification
Year 3: Achieve full operational status
PTA notes that while TIP licenses grant broad permissions — covering Earth Stations, Satellite Hubs, fiber networks, radio links, landing stations, and supporting physical infrastructure such as poles, towers, ducts and pits — many licensees have historically executed minimal deployment.
The Authority believes stricter rollout obligations will improve accountability, expand digital connectivity, accelerate fiberization, and strengthen Pakistan’s network resilience. The proposal also aims to create a more transparent and performance-driven regulatory environment.
The consultation paper has been circulated to stakeholders for feedback before the final regulatory obligations are approved and enforced.
