ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication has detailed the purpose and scope of the Right of Way (ROW) provisions contained in the Pakistan Telecommunication (Re-organization) (Amendment) Bill, 2026, emphasizing that these provisions are designed to accelerate telecom infrastructure deployment, improve connectivity for citizens, and establish a transparent legal framework while fully safeguarding private property rights.
Especially considering the spectrum auction, it is imperative to have investment in infrastructure to ensure reliable, affordable, high-speed connectivity for our people.
The Ministry confirmed that these provisions do not permit telecom operators to enter individual private property without the owner’s permission or due legal process, and do not authorize compulsory acquisition of private land.
Property owners retain the right to respond, negotiate terms, seek compensation where applicable, raise objections, and agree matters such as route alignment, timing and access.
The deemed appropriate clause also does not apply on individual citizen’s properties and is only applicable on collective private properties and public sector.
Where a property owner does not respond despite reminders, the matter will be duly referred to the appropriate Government for consideration and resolution in accordance with the law, upholding the constitutional and legal rights of private citizens. During this process, telecom operators cannot force entry onto private land while the matter remains under review. The proposed amendments also do not authorize compulsory acquisition of private property.
In case of any infrastructure laying, the organizations doing so are mandated to return the property in original shape and ensure no permanent damage to property is caused.
Internet services in Pakistan have faced severe issues because of lack of investment in telecom infrastructure which is due to the fragmented ROW approval process, coupled with arbitrary fees and inconsistent requirements, has significantly slowed telecom network expansion, increased deployment costs, and negatively affected service quality for consumers.
To address these challenges hindering fiberisation and investment in telecom infrastructure, the proposed amendments establish a clear and transparent legal framework covering public property, organized private developments such as housing societies, and individual private property, whilst safeguarding citizen’s rights.
The proposed provisions have already been vetted through a comprehensive legislative process which was conducted by the National Assembly Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunication.
Members from multiple political parties extensively reviewed the objectives, scope, implementation mechanisms, and safeguards relating to citizens and property owners. The provisions were finalized based on results from legislative scrutiny and were subject to detailed deliberations.
At present, the Pakistan Telecommunication (Re-organization) (Amendment) Bill, 2026 is under deliberation in the Senate Standing Committee on IT & Telecommunication after being passed by the National Assembly.
The Ministry of IT & Telecom reiterates that it supports a consultative and inclusive legislative process, whilst ensuring transparency and the protection of citizens’ rights. The proposed ROW reforms represent an important step towards supporting Pakistan’s digital transformation, attracting investment in telecommunications infrastructure, and improving services for millions of Pakistanis.
The Ministry emphasizes that the primary objective of the ROW framework is to remove unnecessary delays in the deployment of telecommunications infrastructure, enabling citizens to benefit from improved telecom services, enhanced internet quality, and stronger nationwide digital connectivity.
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