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April 27, 2026 - Comments Off on 5G Trial Rollout Approved for Gilgit-Baltistan

5G Trial Rollout Approved for Gilgit-Baltistan

The rollout of 5G in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) has moved forward after the GB Council approved policy directives for test trials in the region. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), following authorisation from the Ministry of IT, is expected to direct telecom operators to begin preparations for trials soon.

Four telecom operators, including Special Communications Organisation (SCO), which operates in GB and AJK, are expected to participate. The trials will utilise key 5G spectrum bands, including 2300 MHz, 2600 MHz, and 3500 MHz, allowing companies to test infrastructure compatibility and plan for future spectrum auctions.

The development marks a significant step toward expanding digital connectivity in GB, which was previously excluded from the national 5G auction due to separate regulatory frameworks. Experts say the trials could improve access to high-speed internet and support digital inclusion in the region.

 

 

December 16, 2025 - Comments Off on National Assembly Lawmakers raise doubts over PTA’s user-satisfaction claims

National Assembly Lawmakers raise doubts over PTA’s user-satisfaction claims

The Pakistan Telecommunications Authority (PTA) recently came under serious scrutiny after lawmakers from the Standing Committee of IT and Telecommunications criticized the regulator over deteriorating quality of internet services. The government specifically criticized recent statistics publicized by the PTA citing a 99% success rate in complaint resolution and 85% customer satisfaction. This data was rejected outright by lawmakers who stressed regional inequalities in internet coverage, deteriorating internet speeds, and lack of fiber connectivity. The PTA was urged to be more proactive in encouraging rural connectivity and internal governance reforms.

September 18, 2025 - Comments Off on IT Secretary Says Repair of Damaged Undersea Internet Cables May Take Weeks

IT Secretary Says Repair of Damaged Undersea Internet Cables May Take Weeks

IT Secretary Zarrar Hasham told the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on IT and Telecommunication that repairing damaged undersea internet cables could take four to five weeks, after multiple cables were cut off the coast of Yemen.

“Not only one or two cables have been cut, but between four and five,” he said, noting that two of the damaged cables connect directly to Pakistan, affecting national connectivity. Bandwidth, he added, had been shifted to alternative networks, but full restoration required special repair vessels.

Hasham also confirmed that three new cables are planned within the next 12 to 18 months, which will connect Pakistan to Europe and enhance overall resilience. “Agreements have been made to bring these three cables to Pakistan,” he said in response to concerns raised by committee member Sadiq Memon.

This is not the first time submarine cable cuts have disrupted Pakistan’s internet. Earlier this year, faults in AAE-1, SMW4, and IMEWE networks caused repeated outages, with PTCL cautioning users about reduced bandwidth during peak hours before restoring services.

February 4, 2025 - Comments Off on Starlink expected to operate in Pakistan by Summer 2025: Government

Starlink expected to operate in Pakistan by Summer 2025: Government

Starlink, the satellite internet network owned by Elon Musk, is expected begin operations in Pakistan by June of 2025, according to the government, as 90% of the registration process has been completed. In order to operate in Pakistan, low earth orbit (LEO) satellite operators must register with the Pakistan Space Regulatory Board after which the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority will issue licenses if successful. According to news reports, Starlink will meet the June 2025 operational target.