In a move to assess the progress of the Internet of Things (IoT) in Pakistan, PTA has initiated a comprehensive performance survey. This survey follows the issuance of 19 IoT licenses since May 2022.
The survey aims to evaluate the effectiveness of these licenses by scrutinizing the development of related networks and their operational efficiency. This data will be crucial in determining the need for issuing additional licenses in the future.
PTA teams will conduct on-site visits to IoT installations, gathering data and observing the activities of licensees. This information will be used to inform future decisions regarding the continuation, expansion, or halt of issuing IoT licenses.
“This survey is an important step to ensure that IoT technologies are being implemented effectively across various industries, The goal is to align with the Rolling Spectrum Strategy, which aims to drive economic growth and innovation through advanced technologies and automation.”
The 19 LPWAN (Low Power Wide Area Network) licenses issued since May 2022 are part of a broader initiative to promote the use of IoT in unlicensed and shared frequency bands. This aligns with the established regulatory framework for Short Range Devices (SRD) and terrestrial IoT services.
The existing framework ensures efficient deployment and management of IoT services, promoting the use of both licensed and unlicensed frequency bands for LPWAN technology.
PTA emphasizes that the survey will be in-depth, involving assessments of network deployments, operational challenges faced by licensees, and the effectiveness of current regulations. This data-driven approach will guide future decisions on licensing and regulatory adjustments.
Ultimately, this initiative aims to foster a thriving IoT ecosystem in Pakistan, supporting advancements in various sectors like industrial automation, smart cities, and healthcare.
