Pakistani Telecom Operators Owe Over PKR 76 Billion to USF
Pakistani long-distance international (LDI) telecom operators collectively owe more than PKR 76 billion to the Universal Service Fund (USF), as reported in July. This financial strain on the USF is concerning, especially as it plays a crucial role in expanding telecommunications into underserved regions. The mounting dues threaten its mission to bridge the digital divide in the country.
Several major telecom operators, including Worldcall, Wateen, and Telenor, have missed critical payments, accumulating both principal amounts and late charges. This situation is particularly pressing as many of these operators approach their license renewal deadlines. Industry experts are urging the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to take swift action for dues recovery to prevent further financial strain on the USF.
Top Defaulters
| Telecom Operator | Amount Owed (PKR Billions) |
|---|---|
| Worldcall | 7.98 |
| Wateen | 7.73 |
| 4Gen | 6.23 |
| Multinet | 4.45 |
| Redtone | 4.11 |
| Telenor | 3.74 |
| ACLD | 3.87 |
| Callmate | 3.85 |
| Deodara | 2.57 |
| Witribe | 2.05 |
The PTA has not yet released an official response to the report. Many experts believe that proactive measures, including potential sanctions and stricter enforcement, are crucial for recovering these significant sums. Immediate action is essential for protecting the USF’s projects and ensuring equitable access to telecommunications across the country.
This financial hurdle highlights a substantial obstacle to the USF’s efforts. Stakeholders are keenly observing how the PTA will address this growing issue. Experts emphasize that recovering these substantial dues is vital for the financial health and continued operation of the USF, which is instrumental in bridging the digital divide. The PTA’s response and planned measures for recovering the outstanding funds remain awaited.
