PTA Briefs NA Committee on 5G Rollout and VPN Regulations

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) updated the National Assembly’s IT Committee on Tuesday about progress in rolling out 5G services in the country.

Key Updates:

• 5G Developments:
  • The PTA has engaged a consultant to assist with the 5G spectrum allocation.
  • The consultant’s report is expected by January 2024, and the process is projected to conclude by April 2024.
  • The Sindh High Court’s stay order remains a hurdle in advancing 5G deployment.
• Freelancing Policy:
  • A draft policy aimed at supporting freelancers has been prepared to boost the IT sector.
• VPN Regulations:
  • The PTA chairman disclosed that 25,000 VPNs have been registered to ensure secure internet access.
  • Emphasis was placed on balancing privacy and uninterrupted access for registered users.

Committee Concerns:

• Platform Restrictions:
  • Senator Muhammad Humayun raised concerns about platform bans like X (formerly Twitter), stating these actions threaten Pakistan’s IT sector and impact over 2.5 million livelihoods.
• Ministerial Absence:
  • The absence of the Minister of State for IT during three consecutive sessions drew criticism, prompting the committee to summon the Interior Secretary for the next meeting.

This session underscores the challenges and opportunities in modernizing Pakistan’s digital infrastructure and regulatory framework.