Pakistan soon to have 3G technology: PTA forms policy for 3G auction

Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has decided to auction 3G license in the country, the decision came after the recent appointment of new PTA Chairman, Dr. Syed Ismail Shah. The government has set a draft of policy directive by suggesting entry of existing as well as new players, technology transfer, and other measures that will be presented before the advisory committee for approval within this week. The advisory committee headed by the Finance Minister Ishaq Dar including other representative and all stakeholders will approve the draft policy in order to move on 3G license auction, said Minister of State for Information Technology Anusha Rehman.

She said that after the formation of draft policy by information technology, the PTA would appoint internationally reputed consultants to move on the 3G auction. She said if the consultant would like to change in the draft policy the IT ministry will embrace it will open mind.

She said after the approval of draft policy the government will further proceed the 3G auction.

Anusha Rehamn while briefing to the media yesterday said that four telecom operators in the country show their grave concern in acquiring 3G licenses. She said it is hoped that beside local cellular operators the international carriers will also be the part of 3G auction.

The early efforts made in 2011-2012 from the auction of 3G license failed due to some hindrances that lead to a disappointment of Pakistani consumers, who have been intensely waiting for 3G networks to get better data connections over mobile phones for years. It is essential to mention here that the 3G process is moving ahead on the orders of the Supreme Court which had directed the government to appoint the PTA chairman within the 15 days and then the auction of 3G license in the next 15 days after the chairman appointment.