Pakistan Railways cannot directly provide commercial internet services such as passenger WiFi under its existing telecommunications license. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) informed the Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunication about the restriction.
In a written report, PTA said Pakistan Railways received a special license under Section 5(2)(a) of the Pakistan Telecommunication (Reorganization) Act, 1996. The license permits the department to establish and maintain a dedicated telecommunications system for its institutional operations.
License Limits Railways’ Commercial Internet Services
According to PTA, the license only covers noncommercial data and value-added services required for Pakistan Railways’ own use. Therefore, the department cannot use the license to offer public or commercial telecommunications services to passengers.
The regulator said the restriction also aligns with the Telecom Policy 2015. Under the policy, purpose-specific licenses issued to government and autonomous organizations do not permit commercial telecommunications operations.
Meanwhile, Pakistan Railways currently offers internet connectivity on only three to five trains. Cellular mobile operators provide the connectivity available on these trains.
PTA Suggests Commercial Partnerships for WiFi Expansion
PTA explained that international train WiFi services generally rely on terrestrial networks, satellite connectivity, or a combination of both. Consequently, Pakistan Railways would need partnerships with licensed operators to expand passenger internet access.
The regulator said Pakistan Railways could enter commercial agreements with licensed cellular or satellite service providers. Through this arrangement, onboard WiFi networks could connect passengers using cellular or satellite backhaul.
Such a model would allow the railway department to expand internet access without violating its existing licensing conditions. Furthermore, the arrangement could provide passengers with improved connectivity during train journeys.
PTA’s clarification highlights the legal limits surrounding passenger internet services on railway trains. However, commercial partnerships could offer Pakistan Railways a lawful route toward expanding onboard WiFi services nationwide.
For the latest updates, visit and follow The Truth International website (www.thetruthinternational.com) and subscribe to the YouTube Channel.
