How Much Is the Cable Connection Fee in Pakistan for Consumers?

In Pakistan, cable television remains one of the most accessible and affordable sources of entertainment and information for millions of households. Despite the rise of streaming platforms and digital media, traditional cable TV continues to dominate, especially in small towns and rural areas. However, one common question among subscribers and new operators alike is: What exactly is the cable connection fee in Pakistan, and why does it vary so much across regions?

This article breaks down the structure, regulations, and recent updates regarding cable connection fees in Pakistan, shedding light on how they are determined and what consumers should know before paying.

1. What Is a Cable Connection Fee?

The cable connection fee refers to the amount a subscriber or a cable operator pays to start receiving or providing cable TV services. For consumers, this often means the installation and initial setup charge, while for operators, it covers licensing and renewal fees set by the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA).

In most cities, cable TV services are run by local operators who distribute channels through coaxial or fiber cables. These operators must obtain official permission from PEMRA, ensuring that all transmitted content follows national broadcasting regulations.

2. PEMRA’s Role in Cable Licensing

The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) is responsible for issuing, renewing, and regulating all cable television licences in the country. This includes setting connection fees, renewal charges, and annual dues for operators.

In 2025, PEMRA officially revised its tariff for rural areas, increasing the licence fee for cable TV operators from Rs 10,000 to Rs 20,000, and the renewal fee from Rs 5,000 to Rs 10,000. The decision was made to ensure better quality service and updated infrastructure across less-developed areas.
👉 You can read the official PEMRA announcement here.

For urban operators, fees can be significantly higher depending on the category of service, number of subscribers, and channels offered.

3. Typical Consumer Cable Connection Fees

For everyday consumers, the cable connection fee usually includes:

• Installation charges: A one-time cost for connecting the cable line and setting up the decoder or set-top box.

• Security deposit (if applicable): Some operators require a refundable deposit for equipment.

• Monthly subscription fee: Regular payment for access to TV channels and digital services.

In 2025, typical connection charges in major cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad range from Rs 500 to Rs 1,500, while monthly packages usually cost Rs 400 to Rs 800, depending on the number of channels and whether HD or digital boxes are used.

In smaller towns, however, prices can be lower, but so can the number of available channels or quality of transmission.

4. Hidden or Additional Costs

While PEMRA regulates the licence and renewal fees, local operators sometimes include hidden charges such as:

• Maintenance or repair fees

• Set-top box activation fees

• Charges for premium or foreign channels

Consumers are advised to request a clear breakdown of all fees before subscribing. Transparency helps prevent overcharging and ensures fair practices among service providers.

5. Recent Policy Changes Affecting Cable Fees

The Pakistani government has made several reforms to make the cable and broadband sectors more accessible:

• Abolition of Right-of-Way (RoW) Fees: The government recently eliminated the RoW fee for fiber and telecom infrastructure to support nationwide digital expansion. This move indirectly helps cable operators reduce setup costs, potentially stabilizing consumer pricing.

• Removal of Advance Tax: The advance tax on cable operators under Section 236F of the Income Tax Ordinance has been abolished, reducing the financial burden on small businesses.

• Encouragement of Fiberization: As Pakistan transitions toward digital and IPTV services, cable operators are being urged to adopt modern fiber infrastructure, improving quality and reducing signal loss.

6. Challenges in the Cable Industry

Despite positive changes, the cable industry still faces significant challenges:

• Unlicensed Operators: Many local operators work without proper PEMRA authorization, leading to unfair competition.

• Poor Service Quality: In rural or semi-urban areas, signal distortion and limited channels are common complaints.

• Lack of Awareness: Many subscribers are unaware of official fee structures and their consumer rights under PEMRA regulations.

Addressing these issues requires better enforcement, public education, and investment in infrastructure.

7. Conclusion

The cable connection fee in Pakistan is more than just a number — it reflects the cost of regulation, infrastructure, and service delivery in a rapidly evolving media landscape. With PEMRA revising tariffs and the government removing outdated taxes and right-of-way fees, the environment for both operators and consumers is improving.

However, to ensure fair pricing and quality service, both sides must stay informed. Operators should maintain transparency in billing, and consumers should verify their provider’s licensing status and fee breakdown before making payments.

As Pakistan moves toward a more digital future, understanding the structure and purpose of cable connection fees is essential for ensuring that entertainment remains affordable, fair, and high-quality for everyone.

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