Senate panel told network pressure, single fiber link and load-shedding hinder telecom services despite new towers and spectrum auction
Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Chairman Major General (R) Hafeez ur Rehman has highlighted power shortages, limited fiber infrastructure, and spectrum constraints as major challenges affecting telecom services in Chitral, during a Senate committee meeting on less developed areas.
The briefing was given to the Senate Standing Committee chaired by Senator Niaz Ahmad, where officials reviewed connectivity issues in remote regions.
The PTA chief said that 142 telecom towers are currently operational in Chitral, with additional towers recently installed to improve coverage. However, persistent load-shedding and network congestion continue to disrupt service quality.
He noted that the region relies on a single optical fiber link, making connectivity vulnerable to outages. “When infrastructure work by the National Highway Authority (NHA) results in a cable cut, it leads to widespread disruptions,” he said.
Officials added that while generators can provide backup during outages, heavy reliance on diesel is not sustainable due to high costs and the broader energy crisis.
The PTA chairman also pointed to limited spectrum availability as a longstanding issue but said that the regulator has recently auctioned 480 MHz of spectrum, which is expected to ease network pressure and improve service delivery.
Committee members stressed that telecom operators, given their revenues, must ensure reliable services in underserved المناطق, while also calling for better coordination between government bodies. The committee was informed that efforts are underway to ensure PTA is notified ahead of major infrastructure projects to prevent service disruptions.
The discussion also highlighted the need for expanding fiber infrastructure, especially as Pakistan moves toward 5G technology, which cannot operate effectively on microwave links alone.
Officials said the government is considering special budget allocations for less developed areas to improve digital connectivity and bridge the urban-rural divide.
Analysts note that while recent spectrum expansion may offer relief, long-term improvements will depend on investments in energy stability, fiber networks, and inter-agency coordination.
