Pakistan’s telecom authorities have confirmed a 5G services launch across 22 cities nationwide.

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) delivered the news during a National Assembly standing committee meeting. Chairman Syed Amin Ul Haque presided over the session. According to PTA officials, four sectors of Islamabad already have active 5G coverage. Speed tests conducted in Sector F-8 recorded approximately 100 Mbps.

This 5G services launch also promises future improvements for 4G users. Officials stated that an upcoming spectrum auction could increase average 4G speeds to 40 Mbps. Therefore, millions of Pakistanis might see better performance without even buying new devices. Additionally, the auction aims to enhance overall internet stability across existing networks.

However, committee members expressed serious concerns despite the technological upgrade. Member Sadiq Memon questioned whether 5G would matter at all if basic service standards remain poor. Furthermore, PTA officials acknowledged a troubling reality. Prolonged electricity load-shedding continues to cripple telecom networks. Some areas experience power outages lasting ten hours or more. Consequently, even the fastest 5G connection becomes useless without electricity to run towers and devices.

The committee also criticized declining customer support standards. Major operators have reduced their helpline capacities instead of expanding them. Meanwhile, the chairman urged the PTA to take tougher action against substandard service providers. He called for penalties and show-cause notices against failing operators. Still, no immediate enforcement mechanism was announced during the meeting.

Finally, the discussion turned to PTCL-related financial matters. Approximately $800 million in government dues allegedly remain unpaid. Sadiq Memon also questioned ongoing property transactions by the company. Ministry officials said the Privatization Commission holds the relevant information. Therefore, the committee summoned officials from both the Ministry of IT and the Privatization Commission to attend the next meeting.

This 5G services launch represents a major technological step forward. Nevertheless, lawmakers made it clear that speed means little without reliability, power, and proper customer support.