The Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology (IT) and Telecom was informed about the challenges facing the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) in launching 5G internet services in the country. The briefing, chaired by Senator Palwasha Khan, revealed that while 5G is on the horizon, it requires careful planning and additional spectrum allocation.
PTA officials explained that the introduction of 5G would not result in an immediate shift for all subscribers, as the speed and performance of 3G and 4G services would also improve. The officials added that market conditions and key players would be carefully considered before any final decisions regarding the 5G spectrum auction.
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The PTA further highlighted that a trial for 5G was permitted in 2017, and an advisory committee had been established to guide the process. A consultant hired in November submitted a report on 5G readiness, and the decision on spectrum allocation will be based on recommendations and market dynamics.
Additionally, the committee was briefed by the IT Ministry, which indicated that three frequency bands are currently available for 5G. However, not all users would migrate to 5G immediately, and the ministry emphasized that 3G and 4G networks would benefit from improved speeds following the 5G launch.
The committee also reviewed the progress of the Universal Service Fund (USF), which is tasked with extending telecom services to rural and remote areas. USF officials reported the completion of 63 projects over the past three years. However, security issues in certain areas, particularly in Balochistan, have caused disruptions in services.
The committee also discussed the ongoing internet connectivity issues on the motorway, to which USF officials responded that the PTA had initiated work to resolve the problem.
