The Frequency Allocation Board (FAB) has taken major steps toward Pakistan’s Next-Generation Mobile Services (NGMS) and upcoming 5G auction by releasing key spectrum bands for commercial use.
Officials informed Parliament that FAB worked with the defense forces to free parts of the 700 MHz and 2300 MHz bands. Additionally, 285 MHz in the 3500 MHz mid-band was secured through re-farming of WLL services, widely used globally for 5G.
To improve spectrum quality, FAB conducted nationwide monitoring surveys, identifying numerous illegal links. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) promptly shut these down. FAB also carried out cross-border spectrum studies and coordinated with India, Afghanistan, Iran, Oman, and the UAE to reduce signal spillover and align frequencies for smoother 5G deployment.
The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoITT), FAB, and PTA told lawmakers that FAB’s 50th meeting approved multiple frequency bands for the upcoming 5G auction.
These include 700 MHz (2×15 MHz), 1800 MHz (2×3.6 MHz), 2100 MHz (2×20 MHz), 2300 MHz (50 MHz), 2600 MHz (194 MHz), 3500 MHz (285 MHz), 24 GHz (3.082 GHz), and 39 GHz (4 GHz). In total, 606 MHz of spectrum has been cleared for the auction.
However, 161.6 MHz remains tied up in legal disputes, including 140 MHz in the 2600 MHz band, which is considered prime for 4G and 5G globally. Additional litigation affects the 2100 MHz and 1800 MHz bands, slowing operator participation.
The Advisory Committee on spectrum auctions is reviewing two main issues: finalizing the PTCL–Telenor merger and resolving 2600 MHz litigation. Officials urge a swift resolution in Pakistan’s national interest to ensure timely 5G rollout.
With these measures, Pakistan moves closer to launching 5G, enhancing digital infrastructure, and improving mobile connectivity across the country.
In other news read more about Pakistan Further Delays 5G Launch After Missing New Deadline
