According to the PTA report, broadband subscriptions reached 142.3 million, reflecting a 91% increase over the past five years. Broadband penetration now stands at 58.4%, supported by 55,777 operational cell sites, of which 95.5% support 4G technology. The National Fiberization Plan was implemented to strengthen connectivity and prepare for the 5G ecosystem.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) reported significant developments during the fiscal year 2023-24, including the introduction of a 6 GHz spectrum band for unlicensed use, enabling faster connectivity and marking Pakistan as the 10th Asian nation to adopt next-generation Wi-Fi technology. The initiation of the 5G rollout process is set to enable mid-2025 implementation, with expected advancements in manufacturing, healthcare, and smart cities.
The authority implemented a Three-Factor Authentication system to address SIM-related fraud and improve sectoral accountability. Measures included the Multi-Finger Biometric Verification System and extended buffer times for new SIM activations, significantly reducing unauthorized SIM issuance. Over 5.8 million inactive SIMs were blocked as part of a data-cleansing initiative.
In cybersecurity, PTA raised Pakistan’s ranking in the Global Cybersecurity Index from 79th to 40th place. The launch of a tier-3 Data Center and a National Telecom Security Operations Center enhanced the telecom sector’s resilience. Collaboration with international partners further reinforced the digital security framework.
PTA also undertook child online protection initiatives, joining UNICEF’s ‘Disrupting Harm Programme,’ conducting digital literacy training in 100 schools, and partnering with Meta to launch the Urdu version of the ‘TakeItDown’ portal to address online safety risks.
The annual report outlines PTA’s efforts in advancing digital transformation under the Digital Pakistan vision. Initiatives such as quality-of-service surveys and support for local manufacturing, which saw 94% of mobile devices produced locally, contributed to economic growth and strengthened the regulatory framework.
