5G is the fifth generation of cellular network technology. It is expected to revolutionize how we live and work, with speeds up to 100 times faster than 4G and the ability to connect billions of devices simultaneously. Pakistan is one of the last countries in South Asia to launch 5G services, but that is all about to change. In August 2024, Pakistan will finally come in the ranking list of other countries with 5G networks, welcoming a new era of connectivity and innovation.
Pakistan aims to launch 5G services by August 2024
In a recent news report, the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication says that Pakistan is gearing up to Launch 5G mobile phone connectivity in August 2024. According to media reports, this announcement is in response to the increased demand for faster and more modern telecommunications services. The ministry has released a detailed business strategy for the launch of 5G services throughout the country.
Plan for Getting Pakistan Ready for 5G
This comprehensive plan includes several essential steps:
- Getting International Advice and Guidelines
- Making a Committee of all Government Departments.
- A Strong Auction Plan
- Learning from other countries like Bangladesh.
Hiring an international consultant like Dr. Houlin Zhao & Mr. Matt Beal to provide project direction, organizing an Inter-Ministerial Advisory Committee to design the future of 5G in Pakistan and developing an auction policy and business plan are all essential elements of the plan. Members of the Committee include experts from the Ministry of IT and Telecommunications, the PTA, the Frequency Allocation Board (FAB), the PM Office SRIU (Strategic Reforms Implementation Unit), the PM Taskforce on IT and Telecom, academia, mobile carriers, and telecom companies. The government will also take guidance from successful models in countries like Bangladesh for the spectrum auction process. Importantly, the plan highlights that spectrum allocation will not be provided to any single operator without a competitive process to ensure equality and promote a competitive environment.
You can also read: How Social Media Marketing is Shaping the eCommerce Industry in Pakistan
Business Plan for 600 MHz Spectrum Auction
Before auctioning the demanded 600 MHz spectrum, the business plan outlined the need for significant changes in the telecom sector. This involves dealing with current legal cases about who gets to use the wireless frequencies and making rewards for telecom companies to participate actively in the auction. To encourage the expansion of 5G services, the business plan involves provisions for facilitating the opening of Letters of Credit (LC) and the laying of fiber optic cables.
Launching 5G services in Pakistan is an essential step in technological advancement. It is intended to transform how people communicate and consume content. In addition, 5G will enable new and innovative applications in fields such as healthcare, education, and transportation.
What are the Benefits of 5G Technology?
Some of the benefits of 5G technology globally are given below.
Speed Upgrades
Low Latency
Enhanced Capacity
Increased Bandwidth
Availability and Coverage
Benefits of 5G in Pakistan
In Pakistan, 5G service will transform every field, which may include:
- Education
5G can improve learning with virtual reality and help rural students access education.
- Health Care
It enables remote surgery and makes healthcare more efficient.
- Agriculture
5G helps farmers monitor crops and boosts agricultural efficiency.
- Manufacturing
It innovates manufacturing, like 3D printing, and improves plant efficiency
- Entertainment
5G offers immersive experiences, like HD streaming and virtual gaming.
- Smart Cities
It aids in traffic management, public safety, and energy efficiency.
- Rural Development
It bridges the digital gap by providing information and services to remote locations.
- Job Creation
5G is set to create millions of new jobs in Pakistan, both directly and indirectly.
Final Words
The launch of 5G networks in Pakistan has the potential to boost the economy significantly, particularly in sectors such as healthcare, education, and technology. It will improve how we talk to each other and how we enjoy stuff like videos and games. However, there are constraints and drawbacks to consider, such as a lack of infrastructure, device costs, potential health risks, and cybersecurity issues. To tackle these serious issues before the official launch of 5G network in Pakistan, the Government has its own plans. So, we are almost there, and by August 2024, Pakistan will be ready to enter an exciting digital era with world-class connectivity.
About the Author: Alishba
