In a statement distributed to news organizations, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) stated that mobile phone operators, like other utility firms, cannot shut down their services – even for a short time.
According to the regulator, mobile operators are regulated by PTA licensing requirements, rules, and regulations, and operators are obligated to offer continuous telecom services to subscribers under those terms, and if they don’t, the regulator has applicable procedures to take appropriate action.
PTA responded to a report by stating that cellular and internet users in Pakistan may experience interruptions as a result of a large rise in telecom taxes in the 2022-23 budget.
PTA confirmed in a statement that the information was taken out of context and was erroneous, but did not dispute that cellular operators had hinted at probable disruptions as a result of exorbitant telecom costs.
Backdrop of a News
On June 17, the Senate Standing Committee on Finance summoned telecom businesses to a conference to provide feedback on budget suggestions affecting the industry.
Representatives from three mobile carriers proposed a reduction in overall taxation as well as a rationalization of GST on telecom services (which was raised from 16.5 percent to 19.5 percent in the last budget).
The sector has already expressed its concerns about the same issues in a variety of places.
An increase in any extra taxes, such as those on fiber optic imports (which were raised from 10% to 20%), was also considered, which might slow down the development of fiber infrastructure, which is crucial for internet connectivity across the country.
The challenges experienced by operators, especially the current period of energy load shedding, were also noted as a potential hindrance to providing round-the-clock mobile services.
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