GILGIT: Gilgit-Baltistan 5G launch has moved a major step closer after the federal government approved policy directives allowing telecom operators to begin pilot testing in the region, marking a significant breakthrough in digital connectivity and technological advancement.
The policy guidelines, issued in accordance with the provisions of Article 60(2)(a) along with the Entry No.1 of the Third Schedule of the Gilgit Baltistan Order 2018, will pave the way for PTA to start preparations for 5G rollouts.
Gilgit-Baltistan 5G launch to accelerate digital connectivity
Caretaker Minister for Information Technology & Information from Gilgit Baltistan Ghulam Abbas said that it was “a historic landmark” for the region, achieved through effective cooperation with federal officials and telecommunication authorities.
“This is the beginning of the digital age for Gilgit Baltistan,” said Abbas, reiterating that his government will continue to be dedicated toward providing citizens with modern telecommunication services like those found elsewhere in Pakistan.
As per an official announcement made by the Gilgit-Baltistan Council, these new directives would allow the telecom operators to perform tests of their 5G technologies in anticipation of the upcoming auction of spectrum. The authorities feel that the step would quicken the process for providing next generation internet services in the region.
This move is seen as a revolutionary step in the field of digital transformation in Gilgit Baltistan as the rugged landscape and remoteness have always posed problems in ensuring connectivity. It has been claimed that the introduction of 5G technology will play a key role in making life much easier for the citizens.
According to experts, a better digital infrastructure will bring about many changes in different segments of the local economy such as tourism, education, health care, e-commerce, IT sector, and e-governance. Moreover, better digital connectivity can lead to investments in digital firms and create job opportunities for youth.
According to government authorities, 5G services can aid in narrowing the digital divide by providing online learning facilities, telecommuting jobs, cloud computing, and online banking opportunities to citizens of Gilgit-Baltistan and the urban regions of the nation.
As per the Gilgit-Baltistan Council, such a move reflects the resolve of the area to develop further in terms of being modern and globally connected economically. It is noteworthy that the decision to conduct the tests for 5G will give more scope for progress and innovation.
The authorities have also stated that steps are being taken to facilitate business processes for telecommunications firms and enhance modern IT infrastructure in the region. The telecom companies are supposed to start their technical evaluations once the procedural process is approved by the concerned regulatory bodies.
Experts have suggested that the launch of 5G technology in Gilgit-Baltistan will go a long way toward enhancing Pakistan’s future vision in terms of digitalization and improving connectivity in northern regions that host millions of visitors from across the globe each year.
This latest move is being made while Pakistan is making its best efforts to build digital infrastructure across the country for the utilization of new telecommunications technologies.
