Islamabad, Feb 27: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has acknowledged facing significant challenges in launching 5G services in the country. During a briefing to the Senate Standing Committee on IT and Telecom, PTA officials highlighted several obstacles delaying the much-anticipated rollout.
According to PTA, spectrum allocation remains a key hurdle as it requires a formal policy directive from the government. Although initial 5G trials were conducted in 2017, progress has been slow. To accelerate developments, an advisory committee has been actively working on the matter, and a consultant was hired in November to assess the feasibility of 5G deployment. The consultant engaged with industry stakeholders and has now submitted a comprehensive report.
PTA officials stressed that additional spectrum is crucial for successful implementation, but regulatory and infrastructure challenges persist. Regarding telecom sector mergers, PTA informed the committee that the Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) is currently evaluating the potential merger of Telenor with Ufone/PTCL. The final decision on the number of companies eligible for 5G spectrum allocation will depend on prevailing market conditions.
Expansion of Telecom Services in Remote Areas
In a separate briefing, the Universal Service Fund (USF) updated the committee on telecom expansion projects carried out over the past three years. Officials reported the successful completion of 63 projects aimed at enhancing connectivity in rural and underserved regions. However, they acknowledged persistent issues, particularly in Balochistan, where security concerns have hindered service continuity.
Read More:
Oppo Find X8 Ultra Launch Date Confirmed with Teasers
A senator raised concerns over the frequent internet disruptions faced by residents, urging USF to strengthen monitoring mechanisms. Officials admitted that implementing projects in North and South Waziristan has also been challenging due to logistical and security constraints.
Internet Issues on Motorways Under PTA’s Review
Committee members also questioned the recurring internet disruptions along major motorways. PTA assured that the issue is under active review, with measures being taken to improve connectivity for commuters. Efforts are underway to resolve these problems and ensure uninterrupted internet access on highways.
The government and telecom authorities continue to work on overcoming these challenges, but the road to 5G deployment remains complex. Industry stakeholders are hopeful that with policy support and infrastructure improvements, Pakistan will soon witness the next-generation technology revolution.
