The National Assembly Standing Committee on IT erupted over Pakistan’s deteriorating telecom services. Committee chairman Syed Amin ul Haq presided over the heated session. Lawmakers directed sharp criticism at both PTA and telecom operators. Several members said network quality has only worsened over time.
Committee member Ahmed Ateeq voiced the sharpest frustrations throughout. He said networks are not functioning from his constituency to Karachi. Notably, he pointed out that discussions have continued for two and a half years. Yet no meaningful solution has emerged despite constant meetings.
Ateeq demanded concrete data on fiber deployment during that period. His frustration reflected a broader sentiment across the committee. “Every meeting ends and the network gets even worse,” one member said.
Committee member Aasia Ishaq raised a pointed concern about 5G. She said 4G stopped working properly after 5G services launched. She asked whether members should approach the Supreme Court for relief. Another member highlighted that 3G does not even function in Thatta.
One member noted that WhatsApp calls drop even in Islamabad. If service fails in the capital, rural areas face far worse conditions. The committee demanded immediate accountability from operators.
PTA chairman acknowledged the problems honestly to some extent. He confirmed conducting inspection tours across 41 districts. However, he admitted issuing showcause notices remains PTA’s last resort. He also revealed that companies obtain court injunctions against fines. Additionally, he identified power outages as a major obstacle.
IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja offered a measured response to the criticism. She acknowledged the committee members’ frustration as entirely valid. However, she maintained that telecom services are gradually improving. She also invited committee members to submit formal policy recommendations.
Notably, Khawaja drew an international comparison during her remarks. She pointed out that even the US lacks telecom coverage on motorways and highways. The comment appeared aimed at tempering expectations around rural connectivity.
Chairman Amin ul Haq closed the session with a firm directive. He said there should be no compromise on quality of service. He ordered all telecom companies to improve their services immediately.
The committee also briefly discussed the PDA Amendment Bill. The Law Secretary confirmed consultations with the People’s Party. He called the bill a top priority for the next parliamentary session.
