The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has unveiled its annual report for 2023-24, highlighting significant strides in the telecom sector. Cellular coverage has surpassed 91%, with telecom services now extended to all parts of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), ensuring connectivity in remote regions.
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Broadband users surged from 127.6 million in June 2023 to 142.3 million by September 2024, reflecting Pakistan’s growing reliance on digital services. Average internet speeds improved by 28%, rising to 20.02 Mbps, indicating infrastructure upgrades.
However, the report flags challenges in rolling out 5G, particularly in rural areas, where infrastructure and device affordability hinder adoption. The PTA emphasized equitable 5G access as crucial for bridging the digital divide and fostering inclusive growth.
The telecom sector achieved record revenues of Rs955 billion, with an ARPU of Rs302 per month. Initiatives like the one-window system for IP and VPN registration have streamlined business operations, benefiting industries like software and call centers.
On the cybersecurity front, Pakistan jumped from 79th to the top 40 in the Global Cybersecurity Index, underscoring progress in digital security. The PTA also finalized new Telecom Equipment Standards Regulations 2024, pending ECC approval, to enhance consumer protection and communication standards.
Efforts to maintain a safe digital space included blocking 1.43 million illegal URLs under PECA and resolving 99.3% of 191,514 consumer complaints. Additionally, 5.8 million inactive SIMs were blocked or recycled to ensure data accuracy.
While the PTA report celebrates milestones like record revenues and expanded coverage, it underscores the need to overcome challenges in 5G adoption and device affordability to drive Pakistan’s digital transformation.
