PTA bars licensed operators from supplying bandwidth to unlicensed providers
Regulator says LDI and FLL licensees may sell internet bandwidth, including configured packages, only to PTA-licensed operators, and points cable operators to the District Class Licence route.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has barred licensed telecom operators from supplying internet bandwidth and related services to unlicensed entities or distributors, restating the condition at a meeting with operators at its headquarters.
The session was attended by licensees holding Long Distance International (LDI), Fixed Local Loop (FLL) and Class Value Added Services (CVAS) licences, Profit reported. LDI operators carry long-distance and international traffic, while FLL licensees run local fixed-line access networks.
PTA said LDI and FLL licensees may supply bandwidth, including configured internet packages, only to operators that hold a PTA licence. It said IP bandwidth, panel services, E1 connections, Domestic Private Leased Circuits and similar services must not be provided to unlicensed entities or distributors. Under the direction, an LDI or FLL licensee that supplies bandwidth to an unlicensed distributor is in breach of its licence terms.
The regulator described the directions as part of efforts to strengthen regulatory compliance and deal with unauthorised internet service provision, according to Profit.
The meeting also covered the District Class Licence framework, under which cable operators licensed by the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority and last-mile service providers can obtain bandwidth from FLL licensees. PTA pointed to the framework as the route through which cable and last-mile operators are supplied.
Bills and receipts for internet services must be issued by the relevant FLL or Class licensee, the regulator said.
Profit reported that the meeting focused on ensuring internet services reach customers through authorised operators in line with the licensing framework. It described the session as reinforcing directions already given to LDI, FLL and CVAS operators.
The Express Tribune and Investify reported the development as PTA halting internet service to unlicensed entities.
No operator or distributor was named in the accounts of the meeting.
How the reports differ
Profit gave the fullest account, reporting that PTA reiterated the prohibition and set out the District Class Licence route through which Pemra cable operators can buy bandwidth from FLL licensees. The Express Tribune and Investify headlined the same development as PTA halting internet service to unlicensed entities. Pkrevenue called it a warning to internet providers, while UrduPoint described the regulator and licensed operators as setting rules jointly to curb unauthorised services.
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