Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is preparing to introduce a uniform policy that will allow mobile users to transfer their e SIMs between compatible devices up to 10 times without additional charges. The proposal was presented during a meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Cabinet Secretariat, where lawmakers reviewed key developments in the telecommunications sector, including e SIM policies, the rollout of 5G services, mobile network quality and alternative methods for SIM registration. According to PTA Chairman Hafeezur Rehman, mobile operators currently follow different e SIM transfer policies, resulting in varying limits and conditions for customers. The regulator is now finalizing a standardized framework that will establish a consistent policy across all telecom operators while improving convenience for users adopting e SIM technology.
During the committee meeting, members also expressed concerns about increasing consolidation within Pakistan’s telecommunications industry, noting that reduced competition could affect consumers over the long term. Responding to these concerns, PTA officials stated that Pakistan’s telecom market continues to operate under a competitive and deregulated environment and that healthy competition among operators is expected to reduce the cost of e SIM services over time. The committee also received an update on Pakistan’s 5G deployment. PTA informed lawmakers that 499 sites supporting 5G technology have already been deployed, with visible 5G coverage expected to become available in major urban areas before the end of the year. Officials added that the transition to 5G is also expected to improve the overall performance and user experience of existing 4G mobile networks. According to PTA, Pakistan currently has approximately 15.6 million 5G compatible devices, and this number is expected to continue increasing as more consumers upgrade their smartphones. The committee also encouraged the regulator to support measures that make 5G enabled devices more affordable for the public.
Improving network connectivity across highways, motorways and remote regions was another key topic discussed during the meeting. PTA officials informed the committee that ongoing collaboration with Universal Service Fund (USF) is helping expand telecom coverage and eliminate communication black spots in underserved areas. The regulator has also introduced live monitoring of mobile towers to improve network management and has already implemented national roaming along Makran Coastal Highway. Similar roaming arrangements for motorway networks are also being considered. To further improve connectivity in remote locations, the PTA Chairman suggested adopting Low Earth Orbit satellite technology, which could support the delivery of telecommunications services in areas where conventional infrastructure remains difficult to deploy. The proposal reflects broader efforts to improve nationwide digital connectivity while supporting future telecommunications expansion.
The committee also reviewed the existing process for issuing SIM cards when biometric fingerprint verification cannot be completed successfully. At present, exemptions are granted in limited cases using medical certificates or identity verification provided by National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA). Lawmakers directed PTA to examine additional authentication methods, including retina scanning and facial recognition through mobile applications, to make SIM registration more accessible while maintaining security standards. In a separate session, the committee also reviewed updates from Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA), which clarified that consumers are responsible for gas leakages occurring after gas passes through installed meters. The committee encouraged OGRA to promote smart metering technologies to reduce gas losses, improve customer services and simplify administrative procedures related to payments with oil marketing companies, while continuing efforts to strengthen operational efficiency across the energy sector.
Follow the SPIN IDG WhatsApp Channel for updates across the Smart Pakistan Insights Network covering all of Pakistan’s technology ecosystem.
