For the nationwide rollout of 5G services, the Government of Pakistan has provided E-Band spectrum for Cellular Mobile Operators (CMOs). This move follows the auction of 480 MHz spectrum by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) for future generation mobile services in the month of March. The newly provided E-Band spectrum shall help the CMOs create high-speed wireless backhaul facilities for their 5G services.

Fiber Infrastructure Still Needs Improvement

The fiber infrastructure of the country’s mobile telecommunication sector still lacks maturity as the tower fiberization ratio stands at an average of 17.9%. Jazz has achieved 22%, while Zong has accomplished 19%, Telenor has done 16%, and Ufone has managed 9%. As per PTA’s 5G licensing requirements, telecommunication providers should have an FTTS ratio of 20% between 2026 and 2028, which would then rise to 35% between 2032 and 2035.

E-Band Offers a Practical Alternative

According to PTA executives, the use of E-Band makes it possible to create highly capable wireless connections in regions where it is not feasible or affordable to lay fiber. The telecom firms will decide which of the two methods suits best considering the particular circumstances. There won’t be any spectrum charges on the provision of the E-Band spectrum. However, the Frequency Allocation Board will still keep awarding microwave spectrum licenses. The government will streamline the Right of Way process too.

FAQs

1. What is E-Band Spectrum?
It is a high-frequency wireless spectrum used for high-capacity backhaul.

2. How is E-Band relevant to 5G?
It allows operators to boost network capacity rapidly in areas without fiber.

3. Will operators incur more costs due to E-Band?
No. PTA has made it clear that no additional spectrum costs are incurred.

Conclusion

The spectrum allocation for the E-Band is one of the major milestones towards building up Pakistan’s 5G infrastructure. It will allow the telecom service providers to increase the capacity of their networks more effectively, particularly in those places where there is a lack of fiber optic connectivity. Together with fiberization, it is anticipated that the implementation of this strategy will enhance the 5G network performance.