Authority Directs Service Providers to Submit Action Plans for 5G Service Preparation

August 7, Kathmandu – The Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) has directed mobile service providers to prepare and submit phased action plans to advance the launch of 5G mobile services within the country.

In addition, an eight-point directive has been issued emphasizing the expansion and quality enhancement of 4G services nationwide, aiming to elevate the overall standard of mobile service.

According to a press release issued by the Authority on Friday, under Section 15 of the Telecommunications Act, 1997, mobile service providers including Nepal Telecom and Ncell have been given necessary instructions regarding service quality, regulatory compliance, consumer protection, and the deployment of new technologies.

The Authority has instructed service providers to develop phased action plans targeting the rollout of 5G services starting from major urban areas and submit these plans to the Authority. Simultaneously, emphasis has been placed on expanding the reach and improving the quality of 4G services across the country. The NTA indicated that the process to expand high-speed mobile internet service and implement next-generation telecommunications technology is moving forward in Nepal.

Focusing on improving mobile service quality, the Authority has directed providers to enhance network reliability, data speed levels, and customer experience. Providers are required to regularly submit reports on the completion status of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) set by the Authority. Moreover, periodic updates on network conditions, service disruptions, data speeds, and customer satisfaction must be made available.

To enhance consumer services, the Authority has mandated the modernization of customer support systems with technology-friendly solutions. Service providers are expected to effectively implement consumer grievance mechanisms, employ advanced technologies including Artificial Intelligence (AI) for 24/7 complaint handling, and conduct regular customer satisfaction surveys to inform corrective actions.

Providers have also been instructed to prioritize network expansion in underserved or low-quality service areas, especially targeting industrial zones, commercial centers, and major urban hubs, to extend high-speed mobile broadband services. Additionally, details of areas covered by services must be incorporated into Nepal’s official map and updated at least every three months.

The Authority stressed the maximum efficient use of scarce national resources such as radio frequencies. Providers must ensure effective utilization of allocated frequencies and reduce redundant investments and costs by sharing telecommunications infrastructure to facilitate service expansion.

Furthermore, projects funded by the Authority are required to establish clear work schedules, progress indicators, and timelines to ensure effective implementation, along with regular progress reporting.

With growing cyber threats in mind, service providers must prepare and implement plans for cybersecurity, network security, disaster management (disaster recovery), and business continuity.

Regarding fee management, the Authority has urged the adoption of cost-based, scientific, and transparent tariff systems. Service charges must be regularly reviewed in light of market demand, technological development, and consumer needs, with necessary proposals submitted to the Authority.

The Authority expects that effective implementation of these directives will lead to improved mobile service quality, expansion of 4G and forthcoming 5G services, strengthened consumer rights protection, and accelerated adoption of new telecommunications technologies.

Additionally, the Authority stated that regulatory frameworks have been made more effective with the aim of fostering a more competitive, responsible, and technology-friendly telecommunications sector.