The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication has issued a clarification regarding the Right of Way provisions included in the Pakistan Telecommunication (Re-organization) (Amendment) Bill 2026, stating that the amendments aim to accelerate the development of telecom infrastructure in the country, improve internet services, and ensure faster connectivity for citizens.
According to the IT Ministry, under the proposed Right of Way framework, telecom operators are not being given any authority to enter a citizen’s private property without the owner’s permission or due legal process, nor is there any permission for compulsory purchase or takeover of private land.
The ministry clarified that property owners will retain full rights, including the ability to negotiate terms, demand compensation, raise objections, and decide matters related to route selection, working hours, and access conditions.
It further stated that the “Deemed Approval” clause will not apply to individual private properties, but only to collective private holdings, organized housing societies, and public-sector related cases.
The ministry also said that if a property owner fails to respond despite repeated reminders, the matter will be referred to the relevant government authority for a legal decision. During this process, telecom companies will not be allowed to forcibly enter any private land.
The statement added that companies laying telecom infrastructure will be required to restore affected areas to their original condition after completion of work, ensuring no permanent damage to property.
According to the ministry, one of the major obstacles to improving internet services in Pakistan has been the lack of investment in telecom infrastructure. Complex Right of Way approvals, multiple fees, and inconsistent conditions have slowed network expansion and affected service quality.
The ministry said the proposed amendments aim to establish a clear and transparent legal framework to promote fiberization, telecom investment, and digital connectivity while safeguarding citizens’ property rights.
Besides this, the bill has already been reviewed in detail by the National Assembly Standing Committee on IT and Telecommunication, where members from various political parties examined its provisions, procedures, and public concerns.
The Pakistan Telecommunication (Re-organization) (Amendment) Bill 2026 is currently under review in the Senate Standing Committee on IT and Telecommunication. The ministry said the legislative process will be completed through consultation and transparency.
Furthermore, the core objective of the Right of Way reforms is to eliminate unnecessary delays and ensure better internet services, a stronger digital system, and modern telecom facilities across the country.
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