PTA Internet Licences: PTA Issues 47 New Broadband Licences Across Pakistan
PTA internet licences have expanded broadband access across Pakistan after the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority issued 47 district-level licences in 2026. The move aims to improve internet connectivity and promote digital inclusion nationwide. In addition, the new licences are expected to increase competition in the broadband sector. Officials believe the initiative will benefit both urban and rural communities.
Broadband Expansion Reaches More Districts
Official documents show that the PTA issued its first district-level internet licence in February 2026. The authority granted 12 licences in March, followed by 14 in May. June recorded the highest monthly total, with 20 new licences issued across the country.
Lahore received the largest share, with seven licences. Sargodha ranked second in licence applications. Meanwhile, Faisalabad and Islamabad each received four licences. The PTA also issued licences in South Waziristan and Lower Chitral. As a result, residents in remote and underserved areas will have better opportunities to access reliable internet services.
The regulator expects the new licences to improve broadband coverage and encourage more service providers to enter local markets. Therefore, consumers may benefit from better service quality and greater choice.
PTA Restores Internet After Cable Repair
The PTA said the broadband expansion will also support Pakistan’s growing digital economy. Officials expect the initiative to attract local investment and create new employment opportunities. Furthermore, stronger internet infrastructure will help businesses, students and public services stay connected.
Separately, internet services across Pakistan returned to normal on July 3 after repairs to the SEA-ME-WE 5 international submarine cable. The PTA confirmed that the cable is now operating at full capacity. During the outage, the authority worked with Transworld Associates to speed up repairs. At the same time, internet traffic was redirected through alternative international links. As a result, most users experienced minimal disruption while repair work continued. The successful restoration, combined with the latest PTA internet licences, highlights ongoing efforts to strengthen Pakistan’s digital infrastructure and improve nationwide connectivity.
