National Assembly Approves Telecom Amendment Bill Granting Expanded Infrastructure Powers

The National Assembly has approved the Pakistan Telecommunication Reorganization (Amendment) Bill, which will now be sent to the Senate for further consideration.

Under the proposed legislation, licensed mobile and telecommunications companies will be able to expand their infrastructure by laying optical fiber networks and installing telecom facilities across the country.

The bill states that private property owners, tenants, and public as well as private institutions will be required to facilitate the installation of telecommunications infrastructure when needed.

According to the amendment, individuals or organizations that obstruct the laying of optical fiber cables or the installation of telecom towers may face legal action and penalties of up to Rs50 million.

The government says the legislation is aimed at accelerating digital connectivity, improving internet access, and strengthening telecommunications services nationwide.

Supporters of the bill argue that it will help expand broadband coverage and improve network quality, while critics have raised concerns regarding property rights and the scope of authority granted to telecom operators.

Following its approval in the National Assembly, the bill will now move to the Senate for further debate and consideration.