Pakistan’s 5-Year Telecom Plan Ready to Launch as 5G Rollout Takes Shape

During a recent NA committee meeting, IT minister Shaza Fatima revealed that a five-year telecom plan has been prepared on the prime minister’s instructions, along with a connectivity plan extending to 2030. She said the prime minister will launch the connectivity plan in the coming weeks. She also stated that preparations are underway before the launch of 5G and confirmed that two major telecom companies have merged. The minister further informed the committee that USF approved projects worth Rs. 13 billion during the current year. The standing committee sought a detailed briefing on these projects. The committee chairman said members are not satisfied with the PTA’s performance, adding that what is shown on paper does not match ground realities. The committee chairman stressed that the 5G auction should be conducted as soon as possible and said the focus should be on service quality rather than fees in dollars. Committee members also highlighted ongoing power supply issues at telecom towers. Shaza Fatima said that globally, telecom towers are being outsourced and that outsourcing is the only viable solution to resolve these issues. The committee summoned tower companies and USF officials to the next meeting. The committee was also briefed on IT park projects. The project director said the Request for Proposal (RFP) for the Karachi IT Park is at the final stage, and the tender will be floated by the end of this month. He said the tender for contractor selection will be issued, discussions with the EXIM Bank are ongoing, and the contract will be finalized within three months. The project director said work on the Islamabad IT Park is progressing rapidly, the contractor has increased labor strength, and 98% of the structure has been completed. Shaza Fatima said 80% of work at the Islamabad IT Park has been completed, with 60% completed in just one year. The project director said efforts are underway to complete the project by January 2026. The committee chairman directed that the Islamabad IT Park must be completed by February 28 at all costs. Shaza Fatima said the prime minister frequently seeks updates on the project.