GILGIT: The Special Communications Organ­isation (SCO) has successfully tested 5G services, marking a key milestone in Gilgit-Baltistan’s digital progress and advancing the region toward next-generation high-speed internet connectivity.

According to an official statement by the company, on Saturday, the launch is expected to open new opportunities in areas including information technology, e-commerce, online education, telemedicine, tourism and digital entrepreneurship, particularly for the region’s young population.

The development also fulfils, at the operational level, a demand that had gained momentum during the nationwide 5G rollout earlier this year, when questions were raised about the inclusion of Gilgit-Baltistan in the new technology.

Published in Dawn, September 13th, 2026