USF Approves New Internet Projects for Pakistan’s Remote Regions

The Universal Service Fund (USF) is set to launch new connectivity projects in underserved areas of Tharparkar and Sargodha divisions. According to the document, these projects were designed following surveys conducted by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), which identified regions with either extremely limited or no internet and voice call services. According to a written reply by USF to the National Assembly Standing Committee on IT and Telecom, these projects have already been approved by the board and are now in their final stages, ready for implementation. The National Assembly Standing Committee asked USF to submit a list of all approved projects planned for execution over the next three to five years. The projects are expected to improve digital access and communication facilities in areas where connectivity has long been a challenge. The committee also noted that in several areas where fiber optic infrastructure already exists, services from telecom providers are still not available. The PTA was directed to ensure that telecom companies make these services accessible to the public and to closely monitor their availability and quality. On the issue of internet suspension in District Panigur, the committee pointed out that the restrictions had adversely affected essential sectors. While consideration was given to restoring basic internet access, it was recommended that Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services remain restricted due to security concerns. To resolve the matter, the committee asked the Ministry of IT, the Ministry of Interior, the provincial government, and law enforcement agencies to jointly prepare a viable proposal. It also directed PTA to ensure that internet connectivity continues through the existing fiber optic network despite the suspension of services.