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.