SCO and Major Operators Prepare Infrastructure Ahead of Dedicated AJK-GB 5G Auction

Preparations are underway for the next phase of 5G rollout in Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK) and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB). These regions were not included in Pakistan’s primary 5G spectrum auction held in March 2026, as both territories operate under distinct licensing frameworks and standalone spectrum allocations.

Policy directives approving 5G trials in Gilgit-Baltistan have been cleared, paving the way for telecom operators to receive formal instructions from the regulator to begin testing. The upcoming trial phase aims to practically evaluate 5G Radio Access Networks (RAN), test new frequency bands, assess network compatibility, and measure real-world coverage and performance. Testing is expected to utilize key mid-band frequencies, including the 2300 MHz, 2600 MHz, and 3500 MHz bands.

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Following the conclusion of technical trials, a dedicated 5G spectrum auction will be conducted specifically for AJK and GB. This step will allow participating cellular mobile operators to acquire the required spectrum for full commercial deployment across both regions. In parallel, the Special Communications Organization (SCO) is upgrading its regional infrastructure, which includes installing new 5G Base Transceiver Station (BTS) towers across Kashmir and GB.

This rollout strategy follows a structured four-step roadmap: initial 5G trials, followed by a dedicated regional spectrum auction, licensing and spectrum assignment, and ultimately full commercial 5G deployment for residents.

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