Pakistan has introduced 5G services in 24 cities, with around 1.8 million people already using the technology. However, concerns over limited coverage and telecom infrastructure remain. Federal Minister for IT and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja shared these figures during a meeting of the National Assembly Standing Committee on IT and Telecom. She said the government had conducted a 5G spectrum auction to expand mobile connectivity.
Shaza Fatima Khawaja also highlighted the growing demand for internet services across Pakistan. She said social media platforms and artificial intelligence have significantly increased data consumption. As a result, telecom networks are facing additional pressure.
However, committee members raised concerns about the uneven distribution of 5G infrastructure. The committee chairman pointed out that Sukkur is Pakistan’s third-largest city. Despite its size, the city has only two 5G sites.
Another committee member said the 5G rollout in Sindh had mainly focused on Karachi. The chairman also stressed the need to improve telecom services in Balochistan. He described it as the country’s most underdeveloped province.
The minister said the government was taking steps to improve telecom service quality. However, she identified several challenges affecting network operations. These include the theft of telecom towers, diesel supplies, and generators.
Such incidents can disrupt network operations and affect service availability. Telecom operators also face difficulties maintaining infrastructure in different parts of the country.
Meanwhile, the Universal Service Fund (USF) is working to improve connectivity in underserved areas. Officials told the committee that the organisation is prioritising projects in remote regions. Several USF projects have already been completed, while others remain under development. Officials also confirmed that the fund installed 468 sites across Pakistan over the past two years.
The meeting also discussed Pakistan’s broader digital transformation plans. The Director General of the Pakistan Digital Authority said the world was rapidly moving towards a digital economy.
He highlighted three key pillars required to develop a digital nation. The government established the Pakistan Digital Authority to regulate digital public infrastructure. According to the DG, these measures could contribute up to 2% to the economy.
The discussions highlighted the need to expand digital infrastructure alongside improvements in telecom services. While 5G is now available in several cities, coverage gaps remain a major challenge for Pakistan’s telecom sector.
