Mobile operators have launched 5G services in 23 cities across Pakistan, with the PTA reporting rapid expansion of 5G sites, particularly in Karachi, during the first phase of the rollout.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) presented a report on the 5G rollout to the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on IT, detailing the progress made by mobile operators and the targets set for the first phase.
According to the PTA, mobile phone companies have installed the highest number of 5G sites in Karachi, where the rollout is expanding rapidly.
A PTA document shows that the number of 5G sites in Karachi has increased from 90 to 279, with 189 new sites added within a month.
The city currently has approximately 5,000 active LTE and 4G sites operated by mobile companies. At least 1,000 5G sites are required to be installed in Karachi by the end of the first phase of the rollout.
The PTA said the significant increase in 5G sites reflects the rapid expansion of modern mobile services in Karachi.
Operators face 5G rollout targets
The requirement to install 1,000 5G sites in Karachi represents a minimum licensing obligation, according to the PTA document. The actual number of sites may exceed this minimum as operators expand their networks.
Each mobile operator is required to install 2,000 sites during the first phase of the 5G rollout.
Mobile operators must also upgrade at least 20% of their existing 4G sites to 5G in federal and provincial capitals.
Speed, connectivity targets
The PTA has made increasing the “Fiber-to-the-Tower” ratio to 20% mandatory during the first phase of the 5G rollout.
The regulator has also set a baseline median speed of 50 Mbps for 5G services. The document states that service speeds will increase in phases, with a target of reaching up to 100 Mbps.
These requirements are intended to support stronger network performance as 5G coverage expands across the country.
The PTA said it is monitoring the 5G rollout plans of mobile operators to ensure that the targets are implemented on time.
According to the document, the authority will ensure the timely implementation of the rollout plan and adequate 5G coverage as operators continue expanding services across Pakistan.
