NA IT Committee Raises Alarm on Mobile Network Quality, Questions PTA’s Survey Practices

Under the chairmanship of Aminul Haq, the National Assembly Standing Committee on IT and Telecom convened a session on Wednesday to address persistent issues of weak mobile signals and poor mobile network quality across Pakistan. Members of the committee expressed serious concerns over the quality of mobile networks and questioned the methodology of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority’s (PTA) surveys.

Committee Members Raise Concerns Over PTA Reports

Committee members highlighted discrepancies in the data presented by PTA. Sadiq Memon criticized the Authority’s mobile signal quality survey, calling it “laughable”, and said that discussions on mobile signal issues often upset the minister. He questioned the credibility of PTA’s self-reported findings, stating that they do not reflect the ground realities faced by users.

Sharmila Farooqi echoed similar concerns, questioning where and how PTA conducts its quality-of-service surveys. She proposed that such surveys should be outsourced to third-party agencies to ensure impartiality. Farooqi added that the PTA’s report claiming 99% satisfactory network coverage was “beyond comprehension” given widespread connectivity complaints.

Public Frustration and Need for Solutions

Committee member Pauline Baloch highlighted the practical implications for citizens, saying, “If PTA cannot provide adequate mobile signals, then where should people turn?” Members stressed the urgency of addressing connectivity gaps, particularly in rural areas where mobile networks and internet access remain inconsistent.

The committee collectively urged PTA to review its survey methods, ensure transparency, and adopt independent verification mechanisms. Members also recommended that the regulator take immediate measures to improve mobile coverage and internet speeds nationwide.

The committee’s discussion highlights the growing public dissatisfaction with mobile network performance in Pakistan. Lawmakers emphasized that improving connectivity is crucial not only for individual users but also for business operations and digital inclusion. PTA was asked to submit a revised, independently verified report and a concrete plan to address network deficiencies in the next session.