Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has directed the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology to ensure the rollout of fifth-generation (5G) mobile services in Kathmandu and Pokhara by Magh 2082. The directive was issued during a cabinet meeting held on Shrawan 29, 2082, at Singha Durbar, Kathmandu.
The Prime Minister instructed Communication Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung to make the necessary arrangements for the long-awaited launch of 5G technology in Nepal. If successful, this will mark the country’s first public access to 5G services.
Nepal Telecom (Ntc) had previously received 60 MHz in the 2600 MHz (n41) band for 5G trials back in 2078. On its 19th anniversary in 2079, the company launched a limited 5G trial in select offices in Babarmahal, Sundhara, Pokhara, and Birgunj. However, the service was restricted due to limited device compatibility and lack of broader spectrum approvals.
This time, with the government’s directive, 5G services are expected to be publicly available by Magh 2082. Users will finally be able to connect their smartphones to 5G networks, enjoying higher speeds, improved consistency, and significantly reduced latency compared to 4G.
Ntc has claimed its trial speeds reached up to 1 Gbps, although real-world performance will likely be lower. Still, the commercial rollout would represent a major leap for Nepal’s telecom industry. Minister Gurung has reiterated that 5G remains a top government priority for FY 2082/83, signaling renewed momentum for the long-delayed launch.
