PTA issues 47 district-level internet licences this year

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has issued 47 district-level Class Licences for internet services so far this year, according to PTA documents, in a move aimed at expanding broadband infrastructure across the country.

The documents show that the first district-level internet licence was issued in February. The authority then granted 12 new district-level licences in March, followed by 14 in May and 20 in June, which was the highest monthly figure during the period mentioned in the records.

Lahore received the largest number of internet Class Licences, with seven issued there, while Sargodha ranked second in district-level licence applications. The documents also show that four licences each were granted in Faisalabad and Islamabad. Licences were also issued for South Waziristan and Lower Chitral.

According to the PTA, the new licences are expected to increase competition in the internet services market and strengthen last-mile connectivity for consumers. The authority said the initiative would also support digital connectivity in rural and underserved areas, while encouraging local investment, generating employment opportunities and contributing to the growth of the country’s digital economy.

District-level licensing framework

The PTA began the process of granting Class Licences for internet services at the district level at the start of 2026. The authority has said the step is intended to promote local entrepreneurship and improve broadband penetration across Pakistan.

Under the framework, the Class Licence is issued for a period of 10 years. Applicants are required to pay a one-time initial licence fee of Rs300,000. In addition, an annual licence fee of Rs100,000 for the first year must be paid along with the initial fee before the licence becomes effective.

For subsequent years, the annual licence fee is payable in advance and is subject to a 10% increase each year, according to the PTA documents.