Gilgit-Baltistan moves closer to 5G as trials get approval

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 26th Apr, 2026) Gilgit-Baltistan has moved closer to next-generation digital connectivity after authorities approved policy directives for the launch of 5G trials in the region, with testing expected to begin shortly.

The decision follows months of consultations after the nationwide 5G spectrum auction process, initiated in February, did not initially include Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

Caretaker Minister for Information Technology in Gilgit-Baltistan, Ghulam Abbas, raised the issue with federal authorities and remained actively engaged on the matter.

The minister held meetings with Hafeez ur Rehman, Chairman of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority, and Federal IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja, stressing the need to extend 5G services to the region.

Subsequently, the Gilgit-Baltistan Council Secretariat prepared a summary seeking approval of policy directives for the trials.

The caretaker minister said the proposal was endorsed by the Ministry of Law and Justice and the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication before being forwarded to the prime minister, who also serves as chairman of the Gilgit-Baltistan Council. The summary was later circulated among council members.

He said the council approved the proposal, which was subsequently ratified by the Gilgit-Baltistan governor, removing key procedural hurdles for the commencement of 5G trials.

He added that the telecom regulator had already prepared guidelines for testing, and following formal approval, telecom operators would now be allowed to initiate trials in the region.

The PTA chairman has indicated that a formal 5G spectrum auction in Gilgit-Baltistan will follow the successful completion of the trials.

The move is expected to improve digital connectivity, support tourism, and facilitate business activity in the mountainous region.