Tech Desk 
Feb 05, 2025
In the latest push to revamp telecom services across Pakistan, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has decided to grant Fixed Satellite Services (FSS) licence by releasing its structural draft outlining rules and regulations.
Around a week after the telecom regulatory authority announced the provision of FSS licences to telecom companies, it emerged on Tuesday that the PTA is pacing forward to extend licences, with the exception of Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan.
ProPakistani noted that these licences are non-exclusive and will enable licensees to establish Fixed Earth Stations, Fixed Gateway Earth Stations, and Fixed Terminal Earth Stations while backing up the installation of other terrestrial transmission facilities essential for public network connectivity.
As the FSS can only be fetched through a registered satellite operator, the draft licence for FSS issued by the PTA emphasises several restrictions that must be adhered to.
These restrictions apply to the operation of public switched terrestrial networks, mobile satellite services, radio and TV broadcasting, and satellite-based services for moving objects, including vessels, aircraft, and vehicles.
Licensees are obliged to efficiently comply with the regulations listed in the PTA document, including the Pakistan Telecommunication Act, Rules, and Pakistan Space Activities Rules 2024.
The validity of an FSS licence has been decided 15 years, as stated by the PTA under the draft licence document, which can be renewed on the condition of the licensee submitting a renewal request 2 years ahead of its expiry. With the right to reject a licensing request in its reservation, the telecom authority may not renew FSS licences after expiration.
