In yet another significant development, the caretaker federal cabinet has approved the auction of 5G spectrum.
Interim Information Technology Minister Dr. Umar Saif said that a Spectrum Auction Advisory Committee has been formed under the chairmanship of the Caretaker Finance Minister. The committee will include the Minister of IT and Telecommunication and the Minister of Industry and Production as members.
Dr. Saif said that 300 megahertz spectrum will be available for 5G auction. A consultant will be appointed soon to ensure a smooth auction process.
He said that this infrastructure-sharing arrangement would enable telecom companies to install their equipment on each other’s towers, optimizing operational and maintenance costs. Dr. Saif noted that this shift WAs anticipated to bring about a significant reduction in expenses for telecom firms, ultimately making telecommunications services more cost-effective.
Additionally, the installation of new towers is projected to yield substantial cost savings, potentially amounting to billions of rupees, he added. He was of the view that these savings could be reinvested in enhancing the quality and coverage of telecommunication services across the country.
The federal cabinet also approved telecom infrastructure sharing. This will allow telecommunication companies to share infrastructure, which will reduce costs and improve efficiency.
The auction of 5G spectrum is expected to take place in the next few months. Once 5G is launched in Pakistan, it will usher in a new era of connectivity and innovation.
