PTA faces problems in launching 5G

PTA Faces Challenges in 5G Launch

The Senate committee on IT and Telecom heard that Pakistan Telecommunication Authority cannot start 5G internet services because of its operational problems.

During a space meeting chaired by Senator Palwasha Khan management experts reported that mobile customers will transition to 5G at their own pace. The implementation of 5G technology will automatically create better performances for both 4G and 3G networks.

Spectrum Auction and Policy Requirements

The committee reviewed how the sale of 5G spectrum was progressing. Officials of PTA explained that new spectrum was needed to establish the 5G network. They explained that a government policy must be established first to allocate this new spectrum.

The government allowed 5G testing in 2017 and formed a board to monitor its rollout in the market. In November 2018 PTA employed a consultant who presented their findings later. The officials promised their evaluation process to depend on market growth and telecom operator preparation.

Availability of 5G Bands in Pakistan

IT ministry workers reported to the committee that Pakistan operates with three open spectrum bands. The officials explained that 5G would not begin serving everyone right when it started to work. Adding 5G services will boost and improve the current work of all existing networks.

Universal Service Fund (USF) Progress

USF staff presented their completed programs during the meeting across the past three years. They focused on their official task to deliver phone services to everybody in rural locations. During these years USF finished their work on sixty-three distinct projects.

Senator Mohmand urged the committee about cell dropped signals that affected some Balochistan communities. USF staff members reported internet outages that occurred because security matters affected their areas.

Internet Disruptions on Motorways

Committee members discussed why mobile internet networks fail on motorways. PTA started working on the service disruption problem after the chairman brought it to their attention.