Nepal Sees Unexpected Rise in 2G Users amid 5G Preparations

While the global telecom industry rapidly shifts toward 5G networks, Nepal is witnessing a counterintuitive trend: a sharp rise in 2G users. According to the Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA), over 1.7 million new users subscribed to 2G services during the fiscal year 2024/25, more than doubling the subscriber base within a year.

Data from NTA reveals that the number of 2G users surged from 1.46 million in mid-July 2024 to 3.16 million by mid-July 2025. Most of this growth comes from rural regions, where higher-generation network access remains limited.

NTA Director Arjun Ghimire attributes the increase to infrastructure and geographical limitations in remote areas. “People are aware of 4G and 5G technologies, but technical constraints have hindered their availability in rural zones,” he noted.

The number of 3G users, in particular, has seen a significant decline, while 4G adoption continues to grow, especially in urban areas.

In the review period, 4G subscriptions increased by over 3.4 million, from 22.2 million to 25.6 million, signaling steady momentum in the adoption of higher-speed mobile internet in more connected regions.

Nepal Telecom, the state-owned operator, on the other hand, has announced plans to shut down its 2G service on the 1800 MHz band within this fiscal year as it moves forward with next-generation technologies. The company had received approval for 5G testing from NTA back in April 2020, along with 60 MHz of free spectrum in the 2600 MHz band for up to one year.

Company officials claim that preparations for 5G are now in full swing. According to a senior executive, the initial rollout will focus on Kathmandu and key industrial zones. “We aim to launch 5G this year,” the official stated. “Strategic groundwork and high-level discussions are underway to ensure smooth implementation in priority areas.”