Internet issues cannot be solved till digital highways are built, Chairman PTA

ISLAMABAD: Chairman Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Hafeez ur Rehman has said that Internet issues cannot be solved until digital highways are built.

Addressing the IT committee meeting, PTA Chairman criticized the lack of investment in telecom infrastructure, stating, “The government has not spent a single penny on telecom infrastructure.”

The chairman emphasized the need for digital highways and pointed out that no new submarine cables have been installed in the past decade.

PTA Chairman stated that 31,000 VPNs have been registered so far adding, “VPN registration is not a permanent solution”.

Licensing for VPNs began on December 19, with two companies already contacting PTA.

Former Minister Omar Ayub criticized the government’s intentions, alleging that citizens are now under surveillance.

 “How can we deprive citizens of mobile and internet services”?, he questioned.

Committee member Romina Khurshid remarked, “Even cartoons are monitored in some countries.”

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PTA Chairman Hafeez-ur-Rehman acknowledged improvements in internet services, citing quality reports and outreach to platforms like TikTok and Facebook to address issues.

Federal Minister Amin-ul-Haq shared that discussions on the Digital Nation Pakistan Bill are ongoing among political parties.

The bill is expected to return to the committee before heading to Parliament for approval.

Shaza Fatima, Minister of State, acknowledged that unnecessary surveillance of citizens is unacceptable.

She also mentioned that Pakistan is exploring satellite internet services.

Committee member Mustafa Kamal called for transparency, suggesting joint press conferences for clarity.

Sharmila Farooqi highlighted the impact on freelancers, saying, “My husband’s freelancing work has been affected.”

The meeting concluded with calls for improved systems, fair policies, and a focus on fostering digital growth in Pakistan.