PTA Warns of Potential Disruption to Mobile, Internet Services, ATMs Due to License Renewal Issue

PTA Warns of Potential Disruption to Mobile, Internet Services, ATMs Due to License Renewal Issue

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued a warning that the non-renewal of licenses for Long-Distance International (LDI) operators could lead to significant disruptions in mobile and internet services, as well as ATMs across the country.

A PTA document highlights that 50% of mobile traffic and 10% of internet traffic could be affected if the license issue is not resolved. The document further warns that numerous mobile towers may go offline, potentially rendering 40% of ATMs non-operational. Additionally, global traffic to Pakistan could be impacted, as the transition to alternative operators may disrupt international communications.

The root of the issue lies in a dispute between telecom companies and the Ministry of IT regarding the payment of dues. Despite the severity of the situation, the ministry’s steering committee has yet to develop a plan to address the payment of these dues. The PTA has stated that license renewals are contingent upon the settlement of these outstanding payments.