Islamabad: Government has decided to move ahead with the auction of 5G technology spectrum, pressing forward despite unresolved issues over spectrum clearance, according to officials and telecom industry sources.
The decision signals a push to accelerate next-generation connectivity as authorities seek to avoid further delays in launching 5G services.
Government clears path for auction
Officials familiar with the matter said the government has opted to proceed even though the condition of fully “clean” spectrum has not been completely satisfied. The move follows months of uncertainty over regulatory and legal hurdles tied to key frequency bands.
Sources at the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) said the entire 194 megahertz of spectrum in the 2600 MHz band will be offered for sale. The band is widely regarded as central to high-speed 5G deployment because it supports both capacity and wider coverage.
Legal issues remain, but no stay order
Of the total spectrum planned for auction, 140 MHz is currently subject to court proceedings. However, PTA officials said no judicial order has been issued to block the auction process.
Moreover, authorities confirmed that no telecom equipment is operating on the disputed frequencies. As a result, the absence of any restraining order has been cited as sufficient legal ground to move forward.
Once the government issues a formal policy directive, officials said responsibility for allocating the spectrum will lie with the state, easing administrative constraints for regulators.
Industry expects strong interest
Meanwhile, telecom sector sources said operators are likely to take part actively in the auction, viewing the 2600 MHz band as strategically important for future network expansion.
Industry analysts said the auction could become a turning point for Pakistan’s digital ambitions, unlocking faster broadband speeds and supporting growing demand for data-driven services.
Despite ongoing legal and technical challenges, officials said the government is determined to maintain momentum, framing the auction as a necessary step toward strengthening the country’s telecommunications infrastructure and advancing its broader digital economy goals.
