ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has assured the Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunications that issues related to the 5G auction will be resolved soon.
Government’s Advisory Committee on 5G
- The government has established an Advisory Committee, led by the finance minister, to assess market readiness and spectrum capacity before proceeding with the auction.
- The Senate panel, chaired by Senator Palwasha Muhammad Zai Khan, received a detailed briefing on PTA’s preparations for the 5G rollout.
Key Updates on 5G Auction & Market Readiness
- Trials have been conducted, and market assessments are complete.
- More spectrum is needed for efficient 5G deployment.
- The IT Ministry clarified that even after the launch, not everyone will transition to 5G immediately.
- 5G spectrum improvements will also enhance 3G and 4G networks.
Universal Service Fund (USF) Achievements
- In the last three years, USF has completed 63 projects aimed at expanding 3G and 4G coverage.
- These projects have:
- Covered 11,225 Mauzas (villages and small settlements).
- Benefited 21.7 million people across the country.
The committee welcomed the progress and urged swift action to resolve spectrum-related hurdles, ensuring a smooth transition to 5G technology.
