Amid rising public frustration over declining mobile service quality, Pakistan is gearing up for its long-awaited 5G spectrum auction, targeted for the first quarter of 2026. Officials from Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), alongside the Federal ministers for Finance and Revenue and for Information Technology and Telecommunication, recently reviewed auction readiness, spectrum allocation, and prevailing market conditions in a meeting chaired by Muhammad Aurangzeb. The session was aimed at assessing the current spectrum landscape, preparing strategies for the auction, and evaluating the potential release of dormant spectrum to improve network performance. Briefings to the Deputy Prime Minister and subsequently the Prime Minister are scheduled, signaling the critical phase in finalising timelines, reserve pricing, and spectrum distribution that could directly impact mobile connectivity across the country.
The current network scenario reflects mounting pressure on existing infrastructure, with only 274 MHz of spectrum actively serving approximately 200 million subscribers while roughly 600 MHz remains idle. This imbalance has resulted in frequent call drops, slow internet speeds, and persistent network congestion, highlighting the urgent need for spectrum optimisation. Comparisons with regional peers underscore the severity of the gap; for instance, Bangladesh has allocated nearly 700 MHz for around 173 million subscribers, demonstrating more efficient spectrum utilisation. Industry stakeholders have emphasised that unlocking idle spectrum is essential not only to improve quality of service but also to enable next-generation networks capable of supporting the growing demand for digital services, including mobile broadband, IoT, and enterprise connectivity solutions.
The National Assembly Standing Committee on IT and Telecom, chaired by Amin-ul-Haque, voiced strong criticism regarding PTA’s oversight of network quality. Committee members rejected the regulator’s Quality of Service report, which claimed a 99% satisfaction rate for mobile services, noting that frequent internet slowdowns and weak mobile signals experienced by users contradicted the reported data. Lawmakers demanded independent verification of QoS surveys, raising questions about PTA’s survey methodology, coverage areas, and the validity of its findings. Members stressed that without transparent and reliable reporting, regulatory oversight cannot effectively address service gaps, leaving consumers to contend with unreliable networks. They also reiterated the importance of linking any spectrum discounts or concessions provided to telecom operators directly to improvements in network infrastructure and service delivery.
Experts suggest that the upcoming 5G auction represents a pivotal moment for Pakistan’s digital infrastructure, potentially addressing both service degradation and capacity constraints. Delays in the auction could exacerbate public dissatisfaction and hinder the growth of mobile broadband and other digital services. As government officials finalise auction plans, including timelines, pricing structures, and spectrum release strategies, both consumers and industry stakeholders will be closely monitoring decisions that are expected to shape the country’s telecom landscape well into 2026. The effectiveness of these measures will not only influence day-to-day mobile connectivity but will also play a key role in supporting Pakistan’s broader digital economy ambitions, including enhanced access to mobile services, enterprise solutions, and emerging technology adoption.
Follow the SPIN IDG WhatsApp Channel for updates across the Smart Pakistan Insights Network covering all of Pakistan’s technology ecosystem.
