Tech Desk 
Aug 29, 2025
An undated image. — Unsplash
Internet services in Pakistan seem to be on the verge of becoming cheaper as the government has removed Right of Way (ROW) charges for internet infrastructure across Pakistan.
The removal of ROW charges is believed to significantly drop telecom operators' operational costs and speed up broadband expansion.
This remarkable decision was made after a meeting with government officials and industry representatives, wherein the focal point of discussion was the need for affordable internet.
As per Phoneworld, ROW charges' waiver will also result in reduced expenses for telecom companies that previously faced high costs when installing fibre optic cables, marking an vital step towards improving digital connectivity and supporting Pakistan’s IT and telecom sectors.
The Wireless and Internet Service Providers Association of Pakistan (WISPAP) has welcomed this news, with Chairperson WISPAP Shahzad Arshad calling it “a visionary step” that will boost broadband access, especially in rural areas.
“While this is progress, affordable internet needs both infrastructure reform and tax relief,” Arshad stated. “Millions of Pakistanis—students, freelancers, and small businesses—deserve better access to digital services.”
WISPAP outlined that just removing ROW charges won’t lower internet prices unless the 19.5% provincial sales tax on internet services is also looked after.
The internet regulatory body also urged provincial governments in Punjab, Sindh, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to eliminate this tax.
