Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) will provide 5G license upon request from telecom companies- Nepal Telecom (NTC) and Ncell in a week time. NTA chairman Bhupendra Bhandari shared that the authority would grant companies approval for 5G operation within a week after they submit an application for it. He shared the information while speaking at a SEJON (Society of Economic Journalists Nepal) event in Kathmandu.
To put the matter into perspective, both NTC and Ncell are eyeing commercial 5G operation. Of the two, Ntc has already trialed 5G in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and other cities, which could be turned into commercial soon. At the same time, Ncell says it’s ready for 5G too. So, Bhandari’s words offer an exciting prospect for both companies. But also, the huge costs that the next-generation technology would require could set an uphill challenge in that direction.
Bhandari’s words also come in response to remarks that Nepal’s telcos are not ready for 5G. But the chairman tried to clarify that 5G permission can be granted in a week. He also stated that the authority could also grant willing companies, the 2100 MHz band spectrum for 5G network in Nepal.
Likewise, he mentioned that it may not be possible to expand 5G nationwide at once, but it could start from 8 cities in the first phase.
Also: 4G vs. 5G: Differences Between Two Mobile Networks
Companies can get 5G license in a week, so what it means for Ntc and Ncell?
If NTA can give 5G license to a telecom company, Ncell is at a major advantage. On previous occasions, the company has expressed its desire to start 5G. So, it could knock on the authority’s door and obtain an instant approval. But there are challenges too.
Speaking at the same event, Ncell CEO and MD Jabbor Kayumov said that the company hasn’t started a 5G trial because of the huge investment it will require. He said that the company would require about Rs 70 billion for 5G network. But going by the words of the NTA chief, Ncell would have it easy to get a 5G approval at the moment.
Likewise, Ntc could also find an advantage in the current scenario. The company is seeking public access to its next-generation service very soon. Ntc began its 5G trial on Magh 22, 2079, marking its 19th anniversary. But the company stalled trials, citing the lack of 5G phones. But it seems it can go ahead as 5G phones have come in a deluge. Also, it will use 4G infrastructure for 5G (Non standalone 5G), which will also ease its expenses.
When can we expect Ntc and Ncell to bring 5G?
NTA chairman Bhandari discussed how easy it is to get 5G approval, and if both Ntc and Ncell are ready, we can see them start 5G very soon. There are even sources saying that Ntc could launch 5G commercially for the public in a month. Ncell, on the other hand, wouldn’t want to lag behind in the competition. So, in terms of timeline, both Ntc and Ncell could roll out 5G in early 2082.
Many have bought a 5G phone expecting to be able to browse super-high-speed data. Many more are also planning on switching to a 5G phone for the first time for the same reason. Well, that could become a reality soon.
During the 5G trial, it was known that Ntc 5G could deliver up to peak 1 Gbps download speed. The same can be said with Ncell, but such speed is not possible in daily life usage. Still, the speed would be much faster than what you are getting on 4G. (Let’s expect!)
Let’s hope that Nta, Ntc, and Ncell come together in the 5G project and launch the network sooner than later.
Are you excited about the idea of browsing on your phone at a 5G speed, with NTA claiming of providing 5G license to Ntc Ncell in a week? Do share your opinion in the comments below.
