ISLAMABAD

In a move aimed at boosting digital connectivity at the grassroots level, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued class licences for internet service provision in 21 districts across the country, officials said.

According to the regulator, the licences have been granted for a period of 10 years, with strict rollout conditions to ensure timely service delivery. Licensees are required to commence operations within one year of issuance and must provide at least 100 broadband connections within a year of receiving their commencement certificate.

The PTA revealed that it has so far received a total of 62 applications for district-level class licences. Of these, 21 have been approved, while the remaining 41 applications are currently under review.

Officials say the initiative is part of broader efforts to bridge the digital divide and enhance internet accessibility in underserved and remote districts. “The issuance of these licences will significantly improve the availability of internet services at the district level,” the PTA said in a statement.

Industry observers view the development as a step toward strengthening Pakistan’s digital infrastructure, particularly in areas where connectivity has remained limited due to commercial and logistical challenges.