The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued a warning about possible disruptions in mobile and internet services across the country due to the non-renewal of licenses for Long-Distance International (LDI) operators.
The situation could also affect the functionality of ATMs nationwide. According to a PTA document, the dispute has the potential to disrupt approximately 50% of mobile traffic and 10% of internet traffic in Pakistan.
The document further warns that several mobile towers might go offline, which could lead to the failure of up to 40% of ATMs. Additionally, the country’s global communications might suffer, as rerouting international traffic to alternative operators could pose significant challenges.
The root of the problem lies in a financial disagreement between the telecom companies and the Ministry of Information Technology (IT). The PTA has made it clear that license renewals are contingent upon the payment of outstanding dues, which has become a major sticking point.
Despite attempts to resolve the issue, the ministry’s steering committee has not yet developed a comprehensive plan to address the payment of these dues.
Several LDI companies are already operating with expired licenses, and others are set to expire in the coming months. In response, some telecom companies have turned to the courts to ensure their services remain operational during the ongoing dispute.
The PTA document highlights the financial stakes involved, revealing that nine telecom companies owe a staggering Rs. 24 billion to the Ministry of IT, along with an additional Rs. 54 billion in late payment surcharges. As the dispute drags on, the potential impact on the country’s communication infrastructure grows, raising concerns among consumers and businesses alike.
If the impasse continues, Pakistan could face widespread service disruptions, affecting not only everyday communication but also critical financial services that rely on a stable and functioning telecommunications network.
If the dispute over the renewal of LDI licenses remains unresolved, Pakistan could face severe disruptions in mobile and internet services, as well as critical financial operations like ATMs.
The ongoing conflict between telecom companies and the Ministry of IT underscores the urgent need for a resolution to protect the country’s communication infrastructure and prevent widespread inconvenience for millions of users. Without swift action, the consequences could be far-reaching, impacting both local and international communications.
