The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) on Wednesday introduced a regulatory framework for the provision of free public Wi-Fi services in Islamabad.
According to a document released by the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication, the regulatory framework outlines the responsibilities of licensed operators, data handling protocols, and public awareness initiatives, ensuring both access and security for users.
The framework permits CVAS (Class Value-Added Services) and local loop license holders to deploy Wi-Fi hotspots across Islamabad without incurring additional licensing fees.
Moreover, entities already licensed by the PTA will be provided unlicensed ISM (Industrial, Scientific, and Medical) radio bands free of cost for setting up public Wi-Fi hotspots.
As per the document, the deployment of public Wi-Fi services will remain contingent on the commercial capability of the respective licensed companies. The PTA has also mandated service providers to maintain strict confidentiality of user data and logs.
It further emphasises the importance of user privacy and requires companies to run awareness campaigns to educate users about safe and responsible internet usage.
