Web desk: The government has decided to move with the auction of 5G spectrum. This is even though the requirement for a fully cleared, or “clean,” spectrum has yet to be completely met, according to sources in the telecom sector.
Official sources said the long-delayed 5G auction has received policy-level approval.
This marks a decisive shift toward accelerating next-generation connectivity in the country. The move comes despite unresolved issues related to spectrum clearance.
Sources within the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) confirmed that the entire 194MHz of prime spectrum in the 2600MHz band will be offered in the auction.
The 2600MHz band is regarded as vital for delivering high-speed 5G services due to its strong capacity and coverage characteristics.
Out of the total spectrum, 140MHz is currently involved in legal proceedings.
5G spectrum auction
However, PTA officials emphasised that no court has issued a restraining order that would block the auction from moving forward.
PTA sources further clarified that there is no active deployment or equipment operating on the disputed 140MHz spectrum.
In the absence of any legal restrictions, authorities have agreed to treat this as sufficient grounds to continue with the auction process.
Officials said that once a formal policy directive is issued, responsibility for making the spectrum available will lie with the government.
Telecom sector sources anticipate strong participation from mobile operators in the auction of the 2600MHz band.
Pakistan fibre expansion plan
Separately, under the National Fiberization Plan, the government has set a target to provide high-speed broadband to 10 million homes by 2029, sources report.
Each user will receive a minimum fixed internet speed of 100 Mbps.
The goal is to raise Pakistan into the top 50 countries on Ookla’s global speed rankings.
The Ministry of IT and Telecom is running this project with support from the World Bank under the Digital Economy Enhancement Project.
The initiative aims to improve the capacity of government departments to deliver digital services.
