Image Credit: Daily Pakistan
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has announced that it will not be granting a license to Elon Musk’s Starlink to operate in the country. According to PTA sources, data security concerns are not the only factor that has led to this decision. Issues related to Starlink's business model and technical arrangements have also played a role.
The PTA is in continuous engagement with satellite service providers to ensure that any services provided by Starlink will be in compliance with the applicable licensing regime. This is aimed at protecting the rights of operators that are already licensed in the country and ensuring quality services for users.
Sources at the PTA have indicated that the expected cost of Starlink's device to access the network will be approximately $700, with a subscription fee of $100 for a 100 Mbps internet connection package. This translates to a device cost of around Rs. 200,000 with a monthly package of Rs. 28,000. It is expected that Starlink's services will be more expensive than those offered by other internet service providers in Pakistan.
One potential challenge for Pakistanis living in remote areas is the requirement for credit card payment. This could be a significant hurdle for those who do not have access to financial services.
In conclusion, the PTA's decision to not grant a license to Starlink will have an impact on the availability of high-speed internet services in remote areas of Pakistan. The pricing of Starlink's services may also prove to be a challenge for many potential users.
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