PTA Struggles with 5G Implementation
The IT ministry tells the Senate panel that 3G and 4G speeds will also increase. The Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology (IT) and Telecom was informed on Thursday that the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) faced problems regarding the launch of the 5G internet services in the country.
Government Policy Needed for 5G Spectrum Allocation
In a briefing to the committee meeting chaired by Senator Palwasha Khan, officials explained that not all subscribers would transition to 5G, as the speeds of 4G and 3G services are also expected to improve. They noted that the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) would make a decision considering the market players’ interests. The meeting also addressed the status of the 5G spectrum auction. PTA officials indicated that 5G requires a larger spectrum and emphasized that a policy directive from the government is needed for the allocation of new spectrum.
Advisory Committee Formed for 5G Development
An official stated that a trial for 5G was approved in 2017, and an advisory committee was established to focus on this technology. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) hired a consultant in November, who has since submitted their report. They emphasized that the decision regarding the allocation of the 5G spectrum would consider the market participants. Officials from the IT ministry informed the committee that there are currently three frequency bands available in Pakistan. They noted that not all subscribers would transition to 5G immediately following its launch. Additionally, they mentioned that the introduction of 5G would also enhance the speeds of 3G and 4G services.
USF Updates Committee on Telecom Projects
During the meeting, officials from the Universal Service Fund (USF) updated the committee on their projects over the last three years. They explained that USF aims to provide telecom services in rural and remote areas and has completed 63 projects in that time. Humayun Mohmand asked about the complaints from people in affected areas of Balochistan. USF officials said some services were down in those areas due to security issues. The chairman also asked about the internet disruption on the motorway. USF officials responded that the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is addressing this issue, and work is ongoing to fix it.
Conclusion
The launch of 5G in Pakistan faces challenges, mainly due to the need for government policy on spectrum allocation. While 5G development is in progress, the authorities have assured that 3G and 4G speeds will also improve. The PTA is working with market players to ensure a smooth transition to the new technology. Additionally, efforts are being made to expand telecom services in rural areas through the Universal Service Fund (USF), despite challenges such as security issues in Balochistan and internet disruptions on motorways. The government and telecom authorities continue to work towards improving connectivity and bringing advanced internet services to the country.