PTA Imposes Strict 5G Regulations on Telecom Companies Ahead of Launch. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has introduced strict 5G regulations for telecom operators to ensure efficient network rollout. These measures aim to improve urban and rural 5G coverage and address network congestion. By enforcing these rules, PTA ensures operators meet minimum investment and deployment requirements while maintaining high quality of service.
Under the new framework, each telecom company must set up 1,000 new 5G sites per year, including 200 dedicated to underserved areas. Operators are also required to increase fiberization of towers and submit a mandatory 5G coverage map. The auction requires purchasing 2600 MHz and 3500 MHz spectrum, and a spectrum cap ensures no single operator dominates a band. The submission deadline for bids is February 27, 2026, and operators must invest from their own budgets without relying on the Universal Service Fund (USF).
PTA consulted extensively with the telecom industry, and eight out of ten demands were accepted by the Auction Advisory Committee. These consultations also addressed financial stress from previous auctions and reduced Right of Way (RoW) charges. The rollout will begin in Islamabad and provincial capitals, with operators gradually expanding to other regions. PTA also encourages local 5G phone manufacturing and affordable 5G devices, helping technology adoption and market availability.
In conclusion, PTA’s strict 5G regulations ahead of launch ensure a robust network, mitigate congestion, and support nationwide technology adoption. Telecom operators must comply with deployment, spectrum, and investment rules to provide reliable 5G services. This strategy will benefit consumers and strengthen Pakistan’s telecom infrastructure.
