The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has recently granted Internet of Things (IoT) licenses to seven additional companies, marking a significant step towards the growth and development of IoT services in the country.
New IoT License Holders
The PTA has issued IoT licenses to the following companies: Blix Networks (SMC-Private) Ltd, National Energy Efficiency & Conservation Authority – NEECA, Dreams Networks & Technology (Pvt) Limited, Pepsi Cola International Pvt Ltd, Multinet Pakistan (Pvt) Ltd, Itecknologi Pvt Ltd, and Sparknet Technologies & Solutions (SMC-Pvt) Ltd.
License Duration and Renewal
Each of the companies mentioned above has been granted a five-year IoT license, with the option to renew it upon expiration. This move allows the license holders to establish, maintain, and operate IoT Low-Power Wide-Area Network (LPWAN) networks in Pakistan for the provision of LPWAN services.
PTA’s Regulatory Framework
These IoT licenses have been issued under section 5 of the Pakistan Telecommunication Act of 1996 and the PTA Regulatory Framework for Short Range Devices (SRD) & Terrestrial Internet of Things (IoT) Services. By adhering to this regulatory framework, the operators ensure compliance with the necessary guidelines and regulations set by the PTA.
Expansion of IoT Operators
The issuance of licenses to these seven companies brings the total number of IoT operators in Pakistan to thirteen. The PTA has meticulously evaluated each applicant and granted licenses only after verifying their fulfillment of all the requirements outlined in the checklist.
Previous License Holders
Prior to this expansion, the PTA had already issued IoT licenses to six companies, including Noby Solutions (Private) LTD, IoT Technologies (SMC-Private) LTD, LCC Pakistan (Private) LTD, WeatherWalay (Private) LTD, infostructure Pakistan (Private) LTD, and Kwick High Tech & Solutions Pvt. Limited.
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Detailed IoT Application Explanations
To acquire the IoT licenses, all companies had to provide a comprehensive explanation of their IoT applications, including the network topology and the various components involved such as end devices, gateways, and central network servers. Additionally, a detailed description of the end-to-end security measures implemented within the network was required.
Regulatory Compliance
According to the regulatory framework established by the PTA, the licensed operators are obliged to furnish reports on network expansions, specifically regarding the installation and addition of gateways. They must also provide any other relevant information as requested by the PTA from time to time. However, since most IoT solution providers utilize the connectivity of existing cellular mobile operators, there is no requirement for deploying new base stations. If an operator intends to install a new base station, it is mandatory to seek approval from the PTA.
Regulatory Framework Establishment
To facilitate the growth and advancement of the IoT ecosystem in Pakistan, the PTA introduced a Regulatory Framework for Short Range Devices (SRD) & Terrestrial Internet of Things (IoT) Services in February of the previous year. This framework serves as a regulatory mechanism for the industry, ensuring that the necessary guidelines and regulations are in place to foster a thriving IoT environment in the country.
Conclusion
The issuance of IoT licenses to these seven companies further strengthens Pakistan’s IoT landscape. With a total of thirteen IoT operators now active in the country, the PTA’s efforts to encourage IoT development are undoubtedly making a significant impact. As these licensed operators expand their services and contribute to the IoT ecosystem, Pakistan is well-positioned to embrace the opportunities and benefits that arise from this transformative technology.