Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has announced the removal of the right-of-way fee for the installation of internet and telecom networks across Pakistan. This decision, made under the National Fiberization Plan of the Ministry of IT, represents a major step forward for the country’s digital advancement.
According to Minister for Information Technology Shaza Fatima Khawaja, eliminating the right-of-way fee is a transformative move toward realizing the vision of a Digital Pakistan. The move is expected to significantly reduce costs for investors and telecom companies, encouraging greater investment and expansion in the sector.
In support of the new policy, major government organizations such as the National Highway Authority, Pakistan Railways, and the Capital Development Authority have issued official notifications to begin its implementation.
Previously, the fee for laying network cables on government land was 36 rupees per meter, while private housing societies charged between 200 and 400 rupees per meter. By comparison, in neighboring countries, the fee is just one rupee per meter. Minister Khawaja highlighted that these high fees have been a barrier to business opportunities, making Pakistan less competitive in the region.
The removal of this fee is expected to improve internet accessibility not only in major cities but also in rural areas. The initiative will help students gain access to quality online education, foster growth in the technology industry, boost exports, and allow various non-IT sectors to benefit from improved digital infrastructure.
