PTA to Hold Separate 5G Auction for Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has decided to move forward with a separate auction of 5G spectrum in Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan following the completion of the initial 5G spectrum auction in mainland Pakistan.

Sources told ProPakistani that the next phase will focus specifically on extending next-generation connectivity to these regions through a tailored process.

In the first stage, 5G services will be introduced on a trial basis in both Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan. Local governments in the two regions have already approved the trials and formally communicated their consent to the federal government. This development signals growing coordination between regional and federal authorities to accelerate digital infrastructure deployment.

Officials indicated that a dedicated committee will be formed to oversee the auction process in these territories. Based on the committee’s recommendations, a consultant will be hired to guide the technical and commercial framework for the auction.

The federal government is also expected to issue a policy directive on 5G, after which the PTA will formally engage the consultant to prepare detailed proposals.

The consultant will draft recommendations covering rollout strategies, while the Frequency Allocation Board will make final decisions regarding 5G bands. The PTA will then finalize auction terms in light of both the consultant’s input and the government’s policy directive.

Sources suggest that, despite procedural differences due to the distinct constitutional status of the two regions, the auction process itself is not expected to be prolonged.

While spectrum availability is not considered a challenge in Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, infrastructure deployment remains a key hurdle. The PTA recently completed a 5G spectrum auction in Islamabad, where 480 MHz out of 597 MHz was successfully auctioned.

Officials estimate that the 5G spectrum auction in Azad Kashmir could be completed within a year, paving the way for broader connectivity in the mountainous regions.