The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has responded to criticism over higher mobile internet charges, saying the decision was driven by economic realities and not arbitrary.
PTA’s Director General of Commercial Affairs, Adil Umar Khalil, told SAMAA that telecom companies have been facing mounting expenses. He said inflation, rising fuel costs, and the need to maintain and upgrade infrastructure have significantly increased operational spending, leaving operators with little choice but to raise data package prices.
Despite public concerns, Khalil emphasized that Pakistan’s internet packages still rank among the lowest in the region. He noted that customers continue to receive services at comparatively affordable rates, even after the latest revision.
The authority has also highlighted upcoming developments that could benefit users. PTA believes future spectrum auctions and improvements in right-of-way rules will expand coverage, enhance service quality, and may eventually reduce pressure on prices.
Industry analysts say the telecom sector is struggling with economic volatility, currency fluctuations, and regulatory challenges. They argue that without price adjustments, service quality could suffer.