The Government of Pakistan has assigned E-Band spectrum to cellular mobile operators to support high capacity wireless backhaul, a move intended to accelerate the rollout of 5G services following the recent launch of next generation mobile networks in the country. The assignment follows the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority’s auction of 480 MHz of spectrum in March, which was allocated specifically for next generation mobile services.
According to a PTA document, current tower fiberization across Pakistan’s mobile sector stands at approximately 17.9 percent, with individual operators showing considerable variation. Jazz currently has the highest fiberization level at 22 percent, followed by CMPak, operating as Zong, at 19 percent, Telenor at 16 percent, and Ufone at 9 percent. Under the terms of the NGMS and 5G licenses issued to operators, all companies are required to reach a minimum Fiber to the Site ratio of 20 percent during Phase One of the rollout, covering 2026 to 2028, with that requirement gradually rising to 35 percent by Phase Four, running from 2032 to 2035. The PTA document notes that increasing fiberization across the network will be necessary to meet the backhaul capacity demands that 5G services require.
The E-Band spectrum assignment is designed to give operators an additional option for meeting these backhaul requirements, particularly in areas where laying fiber is not practical or available. PTA officials explained that E-Band spectrum provides high capacity wireless links capable of carrying the large data volumes generated by 5G networks, allowing operators to expand network capacity quickly without needing to lay fiber cable in every location. Officials added that operators will need to procure the necessary equipment themselves to make use of the E-Band spectrum, with each company deciding individually where fiber deployment makes more sense and where wireless backhaul offers a more practical solution based on local conditions.
PTA officials also clarified that no additional spectrum charges are being imposed as part of the E-Band assignment, and confirmed that the Frequency Allocation Board will continue approving microwave spectrum allocations as part of its regular regulatory process. The government said it is also facilitating access to Right of Way through policy and administrative measures aimed at improving ease of doing business and speeding up network rollout nationwide. Officials expect that combining expanded fiber infrastructure with E-Band wireless backhaul will help strengthen the overall quality and coverage of Pakistan’s 5G networks as the rollout continues across the country.
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