Panel Advocates Language Revisions in Punjab Telecom Bill

ISLAMABAD: A special committee led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to review the Pakistan Telecommunication (Re-organisation) Amendment Bill 2026 has proposed significant revisions to its terminology following concerns over ambiguous provisions.

The committee, led by Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, submitted its recommendations focusing on clarifying rights of way provisions related to telecom infrastructure.

While the bill was previously approved by the National Assembly this month, the committee emphasized the need for precise definitions distinguishing above-ground and underground structures, as well as clarifying consent requirements for private property usage.

During its review, the panel examined amendments to existing legal frameworks governing right-of-way access. The ministry stated the bill aims to enhance digital connectivity while safeguarding citizen rights, noting inconsistencies in certain clauses requiring clarification.

The directive emerged after the Senate Standing Committee on IT & Telecom raised objections regarding telecom tower installations. Key recommendations include establishing clear terminology for infrastructure types and requiring mutual agreements for private property access.

The committee stressed that land usage under the amendment must distinguish between public, private, and institutional properties, with specific guidelines for cooperative housing societies and government assets.

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