PTA Clarifies VPNs Not Blocked Amid Record-Breaking Telecom Growth in Pakistan

Posted on December 17, 2024 by News Desk

PTA Clarifies VPNs Not Blocked Amid Record-Breaking Telecom Growth in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has reassured users that no virtual private networks (VPNs) have been blocked in the country to date, nor are there plans to do so in the foreseeable future, despite possessing the technical ability to restrict them.

The announcement came during the launch of PTA’s Annual Report 2023-24, which outlined significant milestones for Pakistan’s telecom sector. The report revealed record-breaking revenues of Rs955 billion in the fiscal year 2023-24, with an average revenue per user (ARPU) of Rs302 per month in the April-June 2024 period.

PTA Chairman Hafizur Rehman, speaking at the launch ceremony, reiterated the stance on VPNs, stating:

“We have said it before, and I repeat it now: we could block VPNs, but we won’t. To date, no VPNs have been blocked.”

Rising Digital Presence in Pakistan

PTA’s latest data highlights the growing digital footprint across the nation, especially on social media platforms. Facebook and YouTube continue to dominate, with 60 million Facebook users and over 70 million YouTube viewers, collectively engaging over half the country’s population.

Interestingly, the data reveals:

  • TikTok: 54.4 million users (78% male)
  • Instagram: 7.3 million users (64% male, 36% female)

This increased engagement showcases the evolving preferences of Pakistani internet users, emphasizing the prominence of mobile connectivity.

Telecom Expansion Driving Connectivity

According to the report, Pakistan’s telecom sector continues to expand rapidly:

  • Total telecom subscribers: 196 million
  • Broadband users: 142.3 million (138.7 million mobile broadband and 3.6 million fixed broadband)
  • Mobile subscribers: 193.4 million
  • Cellular services: Covering 91% of the population
  • 3G/4G coverage: Reaching over 81% of the population
  • Operational cell sites: 55,777, with 95.5% supporting 4G

These impressive figures highlight Pakistan’s accelerating digital transformation, driven by increased cellular coverage and broadband adoption.

The government and PTA remain cautious regarding VPNs and their use. While some concerns persist over accessing inappropriate content online, the PTA maintains its focus on facilitating a secure and connected digital Pakistan.

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