ISLAMABAD

Pakistan has taken a significant step towards expanding broadband infrastructure after the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) issued 47 district-level Class Licences for internet services during 2026, according to official documents.

The regulator granted the country’s first district-level internet licence in February, marking the launch of a new licensing framework aimed at expanding digital connectivity beyond major cities.

PTA issued 12 new district-level licences in March, followed by 14 licences in May, while June recorded the highest monthly total with 20 new licences, reflecting growing interest from internet service providers.

Lahore received the highest number of district-level internet licences, with seven approvals, followed by Sargodha. Faisalabad and Islamabad each secured four licences, while South Waziristan and Lower Chitral were also included in the latest licensing drive.

The regulator expects the new licences to increase competition in Pakistan’s broadband market, improve last-mile internet access and accelerate network expansion in underserved and remote regions.

Officials believe the initiative will strengthen digital connectivity, encourage local investment, create employment opportunities and support the country’s rapidly growing digital economy.

Industry experts say the district-level licensing model could help narrow Pakistan’s digital divide by enabling smaller internet service providers to expand operations and deliver affordable broadband services to communities with limited connectivity.