ISLAMABAD, Feb 6 (Alliance News): The National Assembly Standing Committee on Information Technology has urged the government to expedite the licensing process for Starlink, with services expected to be available in Pakistan by June 2025.
During a meeting chaired by Aminul Haque, discussions focused on the PSDP fund for the Ministry of IT for the fiscal year 2024-25, alongside other key projects. Haque emphasized the need for swift action regarding Starlink‘s licensing, following a two-year delay due to the lack of regulatory authority when the company first sought permission.
The committee also addressed concerns raised by Ahmed Atiq regarding data security, questioning whether the safety of citizens’ data would be guaranteed. The PTA Chairman responded by discussing the need for fiber cables to improve internet speed, citing India’s $13 billion investment in telecom infrastructure as a model.
Further discussions highlighted the lack of internet connectivity in many areas, including regions within 40 kilometers of Lahore, which led to frustration from committee members. Sher Ali Arbab also voiced concerns over the 5G network’s poor performance, with some phones reportedly stuck on E for days.
In response, the PTA Chairman revealed that 2,000 telecom towers had been installed in 2024 and efforts were underway to improve coverage in Buner and surrounding areas. He assured the committee that 90% of the talks with Starlink had been finalized, with the company expected to start operations soon after the licensing is completed.
The Standing Committee has recommended that the Starlink issue be resolved as quickly as possible to improve the country’s internet connectivity and address the growing demand for reliable services.
