Gilgit-Baltistan moves closer to 5G era as federal govt clears trial launch

ISLAMABAD: In a major digital breakthrough for northern Pakistan, the federal government has formally issued policy directives paving the way for 5G trial services in Gilgit-Baltistan, opening the door for spectrum auctions and the rollout of next-generation internet services in the region within the coming months.

The development is being seen as a significant milestone for the remote mountainous region, where digital connectivity has long remained a challenge. Officials say the approval could transform sectors including education, tourism, e-commerce, IT services and e-governance while creating new economic and employment opportunities for the youth.

According to official sources, the policy directives will enable telecom operators to begin preparations for 5G test trials ahead of a formal spectrum auction process. Once completed, telecom companies will be able to introduce ultra-fast mobile internet services in the region for the first time.

A statement issued by the Gilgit-Baltistan Council confirmed that policy guidelines allowing telecommunication companies to conduct 5G trials had been formally approved. The directives were prepared by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority in coordination with the Gilgit-Baltistan Council, which jointly oversees telecommunications matters in the region.

The statement further said the approval was granted under Article 60(2)(a) and Entry No.1 of the Third Schedule of the Gilgit-Baltistan Order 2018.

Speaking to the media, Gilgit-Baltistan Caretaker Minister for Information and IT Ghulam Abbas termed the issuance of policy directives a “historic development” for the region.

He said the move would mark the beginning of a modern digital era in Gilgit-Baltistan and reflected the government’s commitment to bringing advanced telecom facilities to the area in line with the rest of the country.

“Launching 5G services will significantly improve education, tourism, e-commerce, the IT industry and e-governance in Gilgit-Baltistan while also generating modern digital opportunities and employment for young people,” he said.

Abbas added that the regional government was working to provide a conducive environment for telecom operators and was taking practical steps to expand modern IT infrastructure across the region.

Industry sources expressed optimism that after the 5G spectrum auction, Gilgit-Baltistan could emerge as one of Pakistan’s fastest-growing digital regions, helping bridge the technology gap between remote northern areas and the country’s major urban centers.