The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has recommended licensing satellite internet operators, including Starlink, OneWeb and Amazon’s Project Kuiper, to improve connectivity in remote regions and on motorways.
Briefing the Senate Standing Committee on Cabinet Secretariat, PTA Chairman Major General (R) Hafeez Ur Rehman said satellite broadband has become essential for providing reliable internet access in underserved areas where expanding conventional telecom infrastructure is difficult and costly.
He said PTA has completed its technical and regulatory groundwork and submitted its recommendations to the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication.
The chairman mentioned Nepal as a successful example where satellite internet services are being used to improve nationwide connectivity.
He explained that satellite operators must first obtain registration from the Space Activities Regulatory Board, after which the PTA will issue telecom licences to begin commercial operations in Pakistan.
Pakistan has been working on a regulatory framework for satellite broadband as it seeks to expand high-speed internet coverage beyond urban centres and bridge the country’s digital divide.
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