The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) informed the Senate Committee on IT and Telecom of several challenges facing the auction of 5G spectrum in Pakistan.
During a recent meeting at the Parliament House, the PTA stressed the necessity for a larger spectrum to roll out 5G services efficiently and discussed the complexities involved in its implementation.
PTA officials highlighted the need for a government directive to advance the 5G auction policy. They noted that substantial hurdles remain despite an approved 5G trial in 2017 and an advisory committee set up to monitor progress. A consultant hired last November has submitted a report on 5G spectrum planning, but the path forward includes addressing multiple challenges related to spectrum availability.
The decision regarding the 5G spectrum will consider the involvement of three to four major market players, ensuring the competitive and effective deployment of the new technology.
Read: Pakistan Set to Launch 5G Network by August 2024
IT ministry officials indicated that not all users would switch to 5G immediately post-launch; however, the new spectrum would significantly boost the speeds of existing 3G and 4G networks. Pakistan currently has three categories of bands available for telecom use.
Officials from the Universal Service Fund (USF) also provided updates on the telecom projects in rural areas over the past three years, focusing on bringing essential services to underserved regions. Despite the completion of 63 projects, challenges persist, particularly in regions like North and South Waziristan due to security issues.
Senator Humayun Mehmood raised concerns regarding service complaints in Balochistan. USF officials cited intermittent security challenges affecting project completion and service stability. Additionally, the committee chairperson inquired about internet disruptions on the motorway, with USF officials assuring that the PTA is actively working to resolve these issues.
