PTA targets 2,000 5G sites per mobile operator by 2028

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 21st Jul, 2026) The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has set a target for each cellular mobile operator to deploy 2,000 5G sites by 2028 under the first phase of Pakistan's commercial 5G rollout, according to official documents available with Wealth Pakistan, in a move aimed at expanding next generation connectivity, improving broadband speeds and strengthening the country's digital infrastructure.

Phase I of the commercial 5G rollout, spanning 2026 to 2028, requires every licensed operator to establish 2,000 5G sites across the country.

The roadmap also mandates that at least 20 percent of existing 4g sites in the Federal and provincial capitals be upgraded to 5G technology during the period.

The Authority has further directed operators to increase the Fiber to the Tower ratio to 20 percent to strengthen network capacity and improve the performance of 5G services nationwide.

According to the documents, mobile broadband quality standards have also been significantly enhanced.

The existing average 4G throughput of around 4 Mbps is to be increased to a median speed of 20 Mbps, while a minimum 5G baseline speed of 50 Mbps has been introduced with a phased target of achieving median speeds of 100 Mbps.

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The documents reveal that operators have already begun deploying infrastructure under the first phase of the rollout.

In areas where new base transceiver stations and network upgrades have been completed, 5G services are being introduced alongside improved 4G performance.

The initial rollout has involved extensive procurement and import of telecom equipment, integration of newly assigned spectrum bands, network modernisation and preparations for compatible 5G handsets.

Pakistan's commercial 5G rollout will be implemented in four phases, with Phase I currently underway.

The PTA will monitor operators' compliance with rollout obligations, coverage targets and quality of service requirements throughout the implementation process to ensure the successful deployment of next-generation mobile services across the country.