The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has clarified that there is no imminent risk of ATMs or telecom services shutting down in Pakistan.
The PTA confirmed that Long Distance International (LDI) networks have not been discontinued, and operations under expired licenses have not been halted. This assurance indicates no potential impact on IT or financial services, including ATM networks.
Earlier media reports had suggested a different scenario, raising concerns about a possible large-scale telecom disruption. The PTA had warned that without the renewal of LDI licenses, 50% of mobile traffic could be severely affected, with many cell towers going offline.
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It was also feared that 10% of internet traffic could be disrupted, and 40% of ATMs might stop working, impacting international communication as well.
The ongoing dispute between telecom companies and the IT ministry, primarily over unpaid dues, has delayed license renewals. The PTA had linked the renewal to the settlement of these arrears.
With some LDI licenses already expired, and others nearing expiration, several telecom companies have sought court orders to ensure service continuity, owing over Rs54 billion in late payment surcharges and Rs24 billion in arrears.
