Pakistan’s Ministry of IT has launched the Right of Way One-Window Operation, streamlining the process for telecom operators to obtain NOCs. This platform allows for electronic applications, real-time tracking, and online payments, accelerating fiber optic network rollout and contributing to the Digital Pakistan Vision.
NTRA and NTI have renewed their agreement to monitor electromagnetic radiation (EMR) from cell towers in Egypt. This initiative aims to ensure compliance with global safety standards, leveraging advanced technologies to measure radiation levels and support telecom infrastructure development.
Tunisia has enforced stricter regulations requiring telecom operators to deactivate unidentified SIM cards until they are linked to valid identification. These measures aim to enhance cybersecurity and combat financial fraud, ensuring proper subscriber identification and protecting users.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has introduced stricter Quality of Service (QoS) regulations for telecom operators, setting new KPIs to improve service delivery. Amid industry concerns over financial challenges and load shedding, the NCC’s measures aim to enhance service quality while addressing broader industry issues like declining investment and rising operational costs.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has received proposals from international consultants for the 5G spectrum auction, expected to conclude by March 2025. However, concerns about the timing and infrastructure readiness for 5G persist among industry leaders, as Pakistan faces challenges like digital load-shedding and underutilized 4G services.
Ncell, a leading telecommunications provider in Nepal, has renewed its service operation license for five more years, paying the first installment of NPR 5 billion. The renewal process, approved by the Council of Ministers, allows Ncell to continue operations, with the remaining balance to be paid in installments with interest.
The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) successfully recovered a Rs5 million penalty from Wateen Telecom after a prolonged legal battle. The penalty stemmed from an exclusive agreement between Wateen Telecom and DHA Lahore, which violated the Competition Act, 2010. The recovery was made under the CCP’s authority to enforce penalties on non-compliant entities.
The government has approved Ncell’s request to pay its license renewal fee in four annual installments of Rs5 billion each, with interest applied to the second, third, and fourth installments. This decision comes despite legal concerns raised by the Office of the Attorney General, which advised against the installment option.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has upgraded its Web Management System (WMS) to intensify efforts against illegal online content, blocking 183 apps and 2,369 websites. Additionally, PTA has launched a comprehensive cybersecurity audit for telecom operators to strengthen cyber defenses across Pakistan and ensure compliance with international standards.
The Saudi Astronomy Team won three bronze medals at the IOAA 2024 in Brazil, showcasing their skills in astronomy and astrophysics. Prepared through extensive training camps by CST and Mawhiba, the students excelled in a competitive field with participants from 53 countries, marking a significant achievement for Saudi Arabia in the Space sector.
