Senate Committee Explodes With Questions as Internet Prices Rise Across Pakistan

The Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecom held multiple briefings on Tuesday, focusing on rising mobile internet prices, network shutdowns in Lakki Marwat, and corruption inquiries against NCCIA officials. During the meeting, IT Minister Shaza Fatima briefed the committee on complaints that some telecom companies have increased mobile internet package prices. She said Pakistan still has the cheapest internet in the region, with the average user spending only Rs. 250 to Rs. 280 per month. She added that Pakistan’s average revenue per user (ARPU) is below one dollar, compared to four dollars in many countries. The minister said activating packages on users’ phones without permission is unacceptable. She confirmed that the government is preparing for a 5G spectrum auction and wants to strengthen the telecom sector so that revenue and taxes increase while protecting citizens’ rights. PTA Chairman stated that the cheapest mobile package currently costs Rs. 147, and users paying Rs. 1300 to Rs. 1500 receive sufficient monthly data. He noted that telecom revenue grew 16% in 2024, while inflation increased 50%. He added that service quality may improve after the spectrum auction, which is expected in two months. The committee also discussed frequent mobile service disruptions in Lakki Marwat. Senator Maulana Atta-ur-Rehman said service is often suspended even after minor incidents, leaving the public unable to communicate. He complained that power outages immediately shut down towers because companies lack fuel to run generators. PTA Chairman informed the committee that out of 217 towers in the district, nine are offline, with three already restored. Six remain shut due to security threats. Minister Shaza Fatima said service suspensions create difficulties for the government as well, but the Interior Ministry issues directives for such decisions. She added that mobile companies should provide at least eight hours of backup power, and failing to do so is unacceptable. The minister confirmed that work has started to shift towers to solar power, and 3,585 USF towers have already been solarized. Officials also updated the committee on corruption investigations involving NCCIA officers. Two FIRs—one in Lahore and one in Islamabad—have been registered, naming a total of 18 officers from grades 16 to 18. After the new administration took over, no new corruption cases have been reported. The FIA recovered Rs. 425 million in one of the cases. The committee summoned FIA officials for the next meeting to present progress on the investigations. The committee also reviewed the list of PTCL and Ufone Board of Directors. Lawmakers questioned why sitting parliamentarians, including Senator Anusha Rahman, serve on these boards. Senator Afnan Ullah noted that one female government officer is a member of five different boards. The committee expressed concerns over the criteria used for appointing board members across state-owned enterprises.