SCO Launches 5G Trial Service in Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan

ISLAMABAD: The Special Communications Organisation (SCO) has launched 5G trial services at seven locations across Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, marking a major step toward expanding advanced digital connectivity in the two regions.

The trial service was inaugurated by the Director General of SCO, with the initiative being described as an important milestone in the digital development of Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan.

Under the initial phase, 5G services have been activated at seven sites in Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan.

The trial is aimed at providing local residents with access to next-generation mobile technology and assessing network performance, user experience and connectivity requirements.

According to SCO, another 20 sites are planned to become operational by December 2026.

Once completed, the expansion will take the total number of 5G-enabled sites in the two regions to 27.

The phased rollout is expected to provide wider access to high-speed mobile connectivity and support the gradual expansion of the digital ecosystem.

The introduction of 5G technology is expected to create new opportunities in sectors including tourism, education, healthcare, business and public services.

Faster and more reliable connectivity could also support digital applications and improve access to online services in areas where connectivity has traditionally faced geographical challenges.

Following the inauguration, practical demonstrations of the new 5G service were conducted at the headquarters of Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

The demonstrations highlighted the capabilities of the technology and provided an opportunity to assess its performance under real-world conditions.

SCO officials said feedback from users during the trial phase would help evaluate consumer experience and requirements and guide further development of the network.

The 5G trial launch represents an important step in expanding modern telecommunications infrastructure in Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan.

The planned expansion is expected to strengthen digital connectivity and create a foundation for greater use of technology in economic, educational, healthcare and public-service activities across the two regions.