15% of Pakistan's Population Still Lacks Mobile and Telecom Access Despite USF Efforts
Despite significant investments by the Universal Service Fund (USF) since 2006, approximately 15% of Pakistan's population remains without access to mobile and telecommunications services. The USF, funded by a 1.5% levy on telecom companies' earnings, has spent around Rs. 93 billion to expand connectivity. However, challenging factors such as rough terrain, security issues, lack of electricity, and low population density in regions like Balochistan and former FATA have hindered full coverage. To address these gaps, the USF has launched initiatives like the 'Broadband for Sustainable Development' program and an optic fibre project aimed at connecting underserved Tehsil headquarters. These efforts include laying thousands of kilometers of fibre optic cable and establishing telecenters and computer laboratories. The goal is to provide affordable and reliable data and call services, effectively creating information superhighways in rural areas. While coverage has expanded from 44% pre-2007 to current levels, substantial work remains to ensure universal access to modern communication technologies across the country.
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15% of Pakistan's Population Still Lacks Mobile and Telecom Access Despite USF Efforts
Despite significant investments by the Universal Service Fund (USF) since 2006, approximately 15% of Pakistan's population remains without access to mobile and telecommunications services. The USF, funded by a 1.5% levy on telecom companies' earnings, has spent around Rs. 93 billion to expand connectivity. However, challenging factors such as rough terrain, security issues, lack of electricity, and low population density in regions like Balochistan and former FATA have hindered full coverage. To address these gaps, the USF has launched initiatives like the 'Broadband for Sustainable Development' program and an optic fibre project aimed at connecting underserved Tehsil headquarters. These efforts include laying thousands of kilometers of fibre optic cable and establishing telecenters and computer laboratories. The goal is to provide affordable and reliable data and call services, effectively creating information superhighways in rural areas. While coverage has expanded from 44% pre-2007 to current levels, substantial work remains to ensure universal access to modern communication technologies across the country.
tribune