During a recent NA committee meeting, IT minister Shaza Fatima revealed that a five-year telecom plan has been prepared on the prime minister’s instructions, along with a connectivity plan extending to 2030.
She said the prime minister will launch the connectivity plan in the coming weeks.
She also stated that preparations are underway before the launch of 5G and confirmed that two major telecom companies have merged.
Rs. 13 Billion USF Projects Approved
The minister further informed the committee that USF approved projects worth Rs. 13 billion during the current year. The standing committee sought a detailed briefing on these projects.
The committee chairman said members are not satisfied with the PTA’s performance, adding that what is shown on paper does not match ground realities.
The committee chairman stressed that the 5G auction should be conducted as soon as possible and said the focus should be on service quality rather than fees in dollars.
Committee members also highlighted ongoing power supply issues at telecom towers. Shaza Fatima said that globally, telecom towers are being outsourced and that outsourcing is the only viable solution to resolve these issues.
The committee summoned tower companies and USF officials to the next meeting.
Islamabad and Karachi IT Park Update
The committee was also briefed on IT park projects. The project director said the Request for Proposal (RFP) for the Karachi IT Park is at the final stage, and the tender will be floated by the end of this month.
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