Summary✨
- Ncell has requested Ncell 5G frequencies for a trial from the Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA).
- NTA has not granted approval yet due to unclear policy provisions for 5G trials.
- Ncell seeks a 15 MHz frequency in the 700 MHz band and a 100 MHz frequency in the 2600 MHz band to proceed.
- This marks Ncell’s third request for 5G trial approval, emphasizing their commitment to digital transformation in Nepal.
- The decision to approve Ncell’s request now lies with the NTA.
Ncell has requested permission to start a 5G trial. The private telco has submitted a letter to Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) seeking approval to pilot its next-generation cellular technology, various media outlets have reported.
NTA spokesman Pradip Paudyal confirmed that Ncell had requested a frequency for the 5G trial. He said that the company hasn’t been granted approval because the authority doesn’t have a clear provision in the prevalent policy to allow 5G trials.
He said, ‘This matter falls within the jurisdiction of the Frequency Policy Determination Committee under the Ministry of Communications,’ he said. ‘After the committee’s decision, the authority is currently moving forward with the frequency auction process. Through that, companies will be able to obtain frequencies and conduct trials or commercial operations.’ He added that Ncell’s 5G request will proceed only after it pays all the dues to the government, including any outstanding frequency fees.
The government had given permission to Nepal Telecom for 5G trials four and a half years ago. After the Frequency Determination Committee gave in-principle approval to Nepal Telecom to conduct 5G trials in Chaitra, 2077, the board meeting of the regulatory Telecommunications Authority decided to grant formal permission to the telecom for 5G trials in Kartik, 2078. For that, a 60 MHz bandwidth was also provided to the company in the 2600 MHz band.
Ntc conducted 5G trials in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Birgunj. However, the company cited the lack of 5G phones for its wider and commercial rollout. But the company is seeking to launch the network for public access in 2083. This means both Ntc and Ncell have stressed efforts to launch 5G in Nepal. So, this could become a reality soon, in the near future.
Ncell demands 5G frequencies for trial
Ncell has sought 15 MHz frequency in the 700 MHz band and a 100 MHz frequency in the 2600 MHz band to trial 5G. The company has expressed a desire to invest between $250 to $250 million for the next-gen technology if it ensures a favorable environment.
It is the third time the telco has requested 5G trial approval. Previously, the company requested twice to trial the prized network in Baisakh 2078 but was denied. The company has been consistent in its ambitions, though. Earlier, Ncell CEO Michael Foley shared a commitment to stay in Nepal and contribute to the country’s growth. He had stated that the company boasts a strong financial position and is willing to stay in Nepal and continue to further strengthen its services and presence. He made the statements as the company approaches 25 years in service in 2086, which legally means that its assets could go under the state’s ownership.
Ncell says that it plans to use 5G to inspire digital transformation and the digital economy. It even aims to launch NB-IoT, IoT, contribute to smart cities, industrial applications, and deliver speeds of up to 10 Gbps.
Now, the decision lies with NTA to grant Ncell approval and frequencies for its 5G trial.
FAQs on Ncell request for 5G frequencies for trial
Here are important frequently asked questions regarding Ncell’s request for frequencies for the 5G trial:
Ncell has formally requested permission from the Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) to begin a 5G trial in Nepal.
It has requested a 15 MHz frequency in the 700 MHz band and a 100 MHz frequency in the 2600 MHz band for its 5G trial.
Ncell plans to invest between $250 million if it receives favorable conditions for deployment.
It’s possible in FY 2083/84 (2026/2027).
