The government has confirmed that the 5G telecom spectrum auction will take place today as planned. Officials said there will be no delay after successful mock exercises with the three telecom companies including Jazz, Zong and Ufone.
IT Minister Shaza Fatima said the process has been designed so that all companies can participate fairly. She added that several demands of telecom operators were accepted to reduce their financial burden.The government expects to earn revenue from the spectrum sale. At the same time, users are likely to benefit from faster and more reliable internet services across the country.
Fatima noted that Pakistan currently has 274 MHz of spectrum, which often leads to network issues. The government plans to improve 4G coverage first, while 5G services will begin after the auction.Around 600 MHz of spectrum is being offered in the auction, including four new bands. Telecom companies will have to buy at least 100 MHz each. This will increase the total spectrum available and help improve service quality.
The auction will be conducted digitally by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority. PTA Chairman Hafeezur Rehman said the auction would be held online. The telecom companies are satisfied with the process and the software being used.
