In the early 2000s, Pakistan’s landscape began to change. Tall metal structures started popping up across the country, from bustling cities to remote villages. These weren’t new buildings or monuments, but something that would transform the nation: cell phone towers.
At first, these towers were a sign of progress. Telecom companies raced to build them, each trying to cover more ground than their rivals. It was an exciting time. People in far-flung areas could suddenly call their loved ones. Farmers could check crop prices from their fields. Students could access the internet for their studies.
But as the years went by, something strange began to happen. The very towers that had brought so much change were becoming a problem. The telecom companies that had built them with such enthusiasm were now looking at them differently. These steel giants, once a source of pride, were turning into a headache.
What went wrong? How did these symbols of progress become a burden? The answer lies in a story of ambition and unexpected challenges. The content in this publication is expensive to produce. But unlike other journalistic outfits, business publications have to cover the very organizations that directly give them advertisements. Hence, this large source of revenue, which is the lifeblood of other media houses, is severely compromised on account of Profit’s no-compromise policy when it comes to our reporting. No wonder, Profit has lost multiple ad deals, worth tens of millions of rupees, due to stories that held big businesses to account. Hence, for our work to continue unfettered, it must be supported by discerning readers who know the value of quality business journalism, not just for the economy but for the society as a whole.To read the full article, subscribe and support independent business journalism in Pakistan
