Gilgit-Baltistan authorities have approved policy directives allowing telecom operators to begin 5G trials, formally clearing regulatory requirements for next generation mobile services testing.
The approval follows detailed consultations between regional authorities and federal institutions, ensuring alignment with the national telecommunications framework and digital expansion policies.
Regulatory Process and Endorsements
The proposal was prepared by Gilgit-Baltistan Council Secretariat and reviewed by Ministry of Law and Justice before submission for formal government approval at federal level.
It also received endorsement from Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication and was forwarded to Prime Minister for final consideration as Council Chairman.
Council members approved the summary through circulation, while the Governor of GB formally endorsed it, removing all remaining administrative and regulatory bottlenecks for implementation.
Role of PTA and Stakeholders
The development followed coordination between PTA and federal officials, focusing on expanding advanced mobile connectivity services to remote northern regions of Pakistan.
Caretaker IT Minister Ghulam Abbas engaged federal stakeholders and regulatory authorities, advocating for urgent inclusion of GB in evolving telecommunications development framework.
Next Steps and Digital Impact
With policy clearance completed, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority is expected to authorize telecom operators to begin conducting 5G trials across Gilgit-Baltistan in coming phase.
Officials said regulatory frameworks for trials were already prepared, allowing operators to immediately proceed with technical testing, performance evaluation and service quality assessments.
The PTA chairman confirmed that Gilgit-Baltistan may be included in future 5G spectrum auctions following successful completion of trials and operational evaluations by operators.
The initiative is expected to enhance connectivity, improve internet speeds, and expand digital opportunities in tourism, e-commerce and remote economic activities across mountainous regions.
