PTA to auction 1.9 and 3.5 GHz Bands to New Broadband Operators

by Yasir Ameen

Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has decided to auction available spectrum bands in the wireless technology tentatively in February 2012 aimed at increasing the penetration of broadband internet services in the country.

In pursuance of Government policy directive, PTA is planning to auction available spectrum in 1.9 and 3.5 GHz band to new entrants in the broadband sector.

The government ofPakistanhas decided to auction additional chunk of Spectrum for this Technology due to the growing demand of Wireless Broadband Services

With the auction of additional spectrum, new investors will enter the market and more competition will be generated in this segment. As a result the customers will get good quality of services at affordable rates.

Wireless Technology has become popular for the provision of high speed internet and Broadband services.  Wireless Broadband Technologies were deployed inPakistanin 2004 and its penetration of Wireless Broadband is increasing at a much faster rate as compared to fixed line in the recent years.

The Information Memorandum (IM) containing information interalia auction methodology and venue etc will be made available on PTA Website. Further information can be obtained from the Director General PTA Licensing Division or through email to aslamshahab@pta.gov.pk.