Pakistan, July 28 -- The government has approved a major increase in charges for radio-based services (RBS) after nearly 25 years, aiming to recover rising administrative costs. The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) approved the new fee structure last week, affecting around 1,100 radio networks and mobile stations across Pakistan.

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) revealed that RBS fees had remained unchanged since the year 2000, despite inflation climbing over 700% during this period. The updated rates now bring a 361.3% rise for 748 private radio stations, increasing their license fee from Rs76 million to Rs350 million.

Mobile station users, such as aircraft and ships covered by 144 licensees, will face a 300% fee hik...