A subcommittee of the Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunication has called for stronger legal safeguards to protect telecom infrastructure, citing persistent internet connectivity issues and widespread diesel theft from mobile phone towers.
The meeting was chaired by Senator Sadia Abbasi and focused on how theft and security challenges are disrupting essential communication services across the country.
Diesel Theft Identified as Major Operational Risk
Officials from the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication informed lawmakers that diesel theft from telecom towers has become a serious operational concern, particularly in areas facing law and order challenges.
They said improved coordination with provincial police departments is necessary to curb fuel theft and ensure uninterrupted telecom services. Security risks in certain regions continue to raise costs and reduce service reliability for telecom operators.
PTA Warns Operators Over Legal Non-Compliance
Representatives from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority told the subcommittee that laws against theft already exist, but enforcement remains weak because telecom operators often fail to register First Information Reports after theft incidents.
PTA officials said the regulator oversees telecom operators under existing laws and warned that repeated non-compliance, including failure to pursue legal action, could lead to penalties or even cancellation of operating licenses.
Operators have now been formally directed to ensure FIRs are lodged whenever diesel or equipment is stolen from telecom sites.
Surveillance Replacing Guards at Tower Sites
The PTA also noted a growing trend of telecom companies relying on surveillance cameras rather than on-site security guards to monitor tower locations. While cameras can help deter theft, officials said the bigger challenge remains the lack of follow-through when crimes occur.
According to the regulator, operators often avoid filing FIRs due to procedural difficulties and delays, which ultimately weakens accountability and enforcement.
Call for Stronger Legal Protection
Senator Sadia Abbasi stressed that telecommunications are no longer a luxury but an essential public service. She said theft of diesel and equipment directly disrupts communication networks, affecting businesses, emergency services, and ordinary citizens.
She urged authorities to consider stronger legislation to protect telecom infrastructure and treat such assets as critical national infrastructure.
Review of International Models Ordered
The subcommittee directed the Ministry of IT to study international legal frameworks used to protect telecom infrastructure and submit written recommendations. After reviewing the ministry’s response, the committee will finalize its own proposals for strengthening legal and regulatory protections.
Lawmakers said improved enforcement and clearer legal responsibilities are essential to ensuring stable internet connectivity and protecting Pakistan’s digital infrastructure.
