ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has cautioned that the expiration of licenses for Long-Distance International (LDI) operators may severely impact mobile and internet services, as well as ATM functionality, across the country.
According to a PTA document, approximately 50% of mobile traffic and 10% of internet traffic are at risk of disruption due to the license issue. This could result in the shutdown of numerous mobile towers and 40% of ATMs.
The global traffic incoming to Pakistan may also be affected as the transfer of services to alternative operators could compromise global communications.
The issue stems from a payment dispute between telecom companies and the Ministry of IT, with the PTA conditioning license renewals on the settlement of outstanding dues.
Notably, several LDI companies’ licenses have already expired, and others will soon follow, with companies seeking legal recourse to maintain operational services.
The document highlights that nine telecom companies owe a combined total of Rs. 24 billion to the Ministry of IT, along with late payment surcharges of Rs. 54 billion.
Meanwhile, Pakistan is experiencing internet disruptions linked to the implementation of internet firewalls, which aim to monitor and filter traffic but also possess the capability to trace the origin of objectionable content.
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