Shaza Fatima Unveils Plan to Double Telecom Bandwidth, Drive 5G Rollout
Minister of State for IT and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja announced in the National Assembly that Pakistan will soon witness a major leap in internet capacity with the allocation of an additional 600MHz spectrum. The move, part of the government’s digital transformation agenda, is expected to significantly strengthen 4G and 5G networks while improving connectivity in rural and underserved regions. The minister highlighted that the expansion could double or even triple current capacity, meeting the rising demand from consumers and businesses.
She explained that spectrum scarcity has long been a challenge for telecom operators, leading to congestion and slower speeds. The new allocation will ease these bottlenecks, enabling operators to deliver faster, more reliable, and affordable services. By utilizing the 600MHz band—known for its superior coverage and penetration—Pakistan aims to accelerate 5G deployment and enhance digital inclusion across the country.
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Alongside spectrum expansion, the government is preparing for auctions, streamlining regulations, and encouraging investment in fiber-optic infrastructure. Members of the National Assembly expressed strong support, urging swift execution to avoid delays. Shaza Fatima assured transparency in the process and emphasized that auction proceeds will be reinvested into digital initiatives. The development underscores Pakistan’s ambition to position itself as a regional digital hub through robust connectivity and forward-looking reforms.
