From villages to cities, faster internet on the way as RoW charges scrapped

ISLAMABAD: In a major development towards building a digitally connected Pakistan, the federal government has formally waived Right of Way (RoW) charges on the laying of optic fibre cables and related IT infrastructure.

The move, which comes on the directives of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, marks a breakthrough in the Ministry of IT and Telecom’s National Fibrisation Plan.

Federal Minister for IT and Telecom, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, welcomed the decision, describing it as a “dream finally coming to life.” In a post on Thursday, she said the removal of RoW charges by the Capital Development Authority, National Highway Authority and Pakistan Railways would pave the way for swift nationwide fibrisation.

“This is a step forward in creating a #DigitalNationPakistan. Every additional kilometre of fibre laid will improve internet speeds, expand connectivity, and support the growth of our digital economy,” she stated.

Benefits for internet users and economy

The minister highlighted several advantages of the initiative: affordable and faster internet access in both rural and urban areas, greater opportunities for students to pursue quality online education, and a boost to the country’s technology industry and exports. She added that reliable digital infrastructure would empower non-IT businesses as well by increasing productivity and innovation.

Khawaja expressed gratitude to Communications Minister Abdul Aleem Khan, Railway Minister Hanif Abbasi, the Special Investment Facilitation Council and the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority for supporting the reform. She reserved special thanks for the prime minister’s team, crediting their focus and commitment for helping the vision take shape.

Official notification issued

According to the official notification, the “non-collection of the Right of Way charges for development and installation of IT and related infrastructure/fiberisation” has been approved by the competent authority and is effective immediately. Copies of the decision have been circulated to the relevant ministries, departments, and authorities, including Pakistan Railways and the NHA.

Khawaja said the move would finally remove long-standing hurdles faced by telecom operators and accelerate the pace of fibre deployment across the country. “One step at a time, my dream of an accessible, inclusive and digitally powered Pakistan is coming to life,” she remarked.