Jazz links 1,000 sites to 5G, seeks power-grid upgrades

Dawn reported that mobile operator Jazz has switched 1,000 sites across Pakistan over to 5G service and asked the government to strengthen the power network. Speaking at a briefing on Thursday, Jazz GSM President Kazim Mujtaba said the operator plans to raise that count to 2,500 sites by year-end. He said 5G networks draw roughly double the electricity used by 4G networks, which is why grid stations need upgrading.

Mr Mujtaba said the near-term advantages for ordinary users are modest, with the biggest uses expected in industry, corporate circles and government offices. He added that 5G-based sensors inside buildings could flag abnormal overheating or surges in power use and alert the authorities early. He pointed to a recent blaze at Pims Hospital in Islamabad, arguing that sensors on cooling equipment might catch unusual heat or power use before a serious incident.