Senate Seeks Answers Over Delays in Satellite Internet Licensing

The issue of delays in issuing satellite internet service licenses has reached parliament, with Sarmad Ali submitting a call attention notice in the Senate, urging the federal government to explain the prolonged hold-up.

In the notice, the senator highlighted that delays in regulatory approvals are affecting companies interested in entering Pakistan’s market. At least five satellite internet firms are reportedly awaiting final clearance, raising concerns about missed investment opportunities and slow technological progress.

According to the document, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has already completed most requirements necessary for launching satellite-based internet services. However, registration with the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (PSARB) remains pending, causing what the notice describes as “unnecessary delays” in licence issuance.

The senator has called on the federal IT minister and relevant authorities to clarify the reasons behind the delays and provide a timeline for when licences will be issued.

Industry sources maintain that international satellite operators are ready to launch services in Pakistan and have assured compliance with national security and legal frameworks. They also dismissed concerns around security risks as “misleading,” stating that companies are willing to operate strictly within Pakistan’s regulatory environment.

Experts argue that satellite internet is critical for improving connectivity in remote and underserved areas, where traditional broadband infrastructure remains limited. Continued delays, they warn, could hinder digital inclusion and discourage foreign investment in Pakistan’s evolving telecom sector.

The development places renewed pressure on regulators to streamline approvals and facilitate the timely rollout of next-generation connectivity solutions.

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