ISLAMABAD: Preparations for the launch of 5G service in the country on the occasion of Eidul Fitr have been completed.
Companies that have acquired 5G spectrum will be formally issued licences today (Thursday), paving the way for launch of next-generation mobile services in the country.
According to sources, a special ceremony will be held at Prime Minister’s House for issuance of 5G licenses, during which telecom companies will be awarded licences. Invitations have already been sent to leadership of companies that have secured the 5G spectrum, while Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will attend as chief guest.
For obtaining the licences, all three telecom companies have submitted bank guarantees of $15 million each. They have already completed technical and administrative preparations for launching 5G services.
Immediately after issuance of licences, telecom companies will begin rolling out 5G services in major cities, including Islamabad. In the first phase, the service will be provided in selected areas of major cities, and its coverage will gradually expand to other parts of the country.
According to the licence terms, each company will be required to install 1,000 new telecom sites, while at least 200 sites must be set up in low-coverage and remote areas.
