The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued 47 district-level Class Licences for internet services during the current year. The move aims to expand broadband connectivity and improve digital access across Pakistan.
According to official documents, the first district-level licence was granted in February 2026. The number of new internet licences increased steadily in the following months.
The PTA issued 12 licences in March. Another 14 licences were granted in May. June recorded the highest number, with 20 district-level licences issued during a single month.
Lahore received the largest share of the new licences. A total of seven district-level licences were issued for the city. Sargodha ranked second in licence applications, while Faisalabad and Islamabad each received four licences.
The telecom regulator also extended licensing opportunities to underserved regions. New licences were issued in South Waziristan and Lower Chitral to improve internet service availability in those areas.
Officials expect the new internet licences to increase competition among service providers. Greater competition could lead to better internet services and improved access for consumers.
The initiative is also expected to strengthen digital connectivity in rural and less-developed districts. Better broadband infrastructure may help support education, business, and public services in these regions.
According to the documents, the licensing process could encourage local investment in the telecommunications sector. Authorities believe it may also create new employment opportunities and support Pakistan’s growing digital economy.
The development comes shortly after internet services across the country returned to normal following repairs to the SEA-ME-WE 5 submarine cable system. The PTA confirmed that the cable resumed full operations after the fault was fixed.
During the outage, the telecom regulator worked closely with Transworld Associates (TWA) to speed up the repair process. Internet traffic was temporarily rerouted through alternative international routes to reduce disruption for users.
The successful restoration of the cable helped maintain service continuity across most parts of Pakistan. Officials said the coordinated response minimized the impact of the temporary fault.
The issuance of new internet licences is part of broader efforts to improve digital infrastructure nationwide. Expanding broadband coverage remains a key objective for the telecommunications sector.
Industry experts believe increased licensing can help reduce connectivity gaps between major cities and remote districts. Improved internet access may also support online businesses, digital payments, and remote work opportunities.
The PTA has continued to promote broadband expansion through district-level licensing. The latest approvals are expected to bring additional service providers into local markets and improve options for consumers.
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With 47 new internet licences issued during the year, authorities expect stronger broadband growth and wider digital inclusion across Pakistan. The initiative is viewed as an important step toward improving connectivity in both urban and rural communities.
