Pakistan has approved policy directives to initiate 5G test trials in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), marking a key step toward expanding next-generation telecom infrastructure in the region.
The decision was approved by the GB Council, chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, with formal directives expected to be issued to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) in the coming days. Once authorised by the IT Ministry, the PTA will instruct telecom operators to begin trial deployments.
Four operators are expected to participate in the trials, including Zong, Jazz, Ufone, and Special Communications Organisation (SCO), which exclusively serves GB and Azad Jammu and Kashmir. The trials will focus on testing network performance, device compatibility, and operational readiness across key 5G spectrum bands, including 2,300 MHz, 2,600 MHz, and 3,500 MHz.
Gilgit-Baltistan and AJK were not included in Pakistan’s recent nationwide spectrum auction due to separate regulatory frameworks. The trial phase will allow operators to evaluate technical feasibility and develop rollout strategies ahead of a dedicated spectrum auction for the region.
The move reflects growing momentum around 5G adoption in Pakistan, with operators and regulators working to expand coverage beyond major urban centres. Extending next-generation connectivity to remote regions like GB is expected to support digital inclusion, improve connectivity, and enable new use cases across tourism, public services, and local economies.
Editor’s Note:
Expanding 5G trials into remote regions signals a shift toward more inclusive network planning in Pakistan. The success of these trials will be critical in shaping future spectrum strategy and nationwide 5G rollout.
