According to the latest data from Nepal Telecommunication (NTA), the total number of 4G subscribers in Nepal has surpassed 1.91 crores, with a 6 lakh+ increase in a single month. Nepal has three operators providing 4G services, namely Nepal Telecom (NTC), Ncell, and Smart Cell. Ntc has the largest customer base, followed by Ncell and Smart Cell.
Ntc added 6 lakhs, 47 thousand, and 163 new 4G subscribers in a single month, bringing its total to 1 crore, 21 lakhs, 97 thousand, and 344. Ncell’s 4G subscription base slightly increased by 25 thousand, and 293, making its total base 68 lakhs, 44 thousand, and 916. Smart Cell, on the other hand, lost 7 thousand, 214 subscribers, leaving it with only 1 lakh, 7 thousand, and 76 users on its network. It may also lose its unified license in the coming weeks, as its payment deadline is approaching.
As newer technologies like 5G emerge, older-generation communication standards such as 3G and 2G are struggling for survival. CDMA is also planned to be phased out this fiscal year 2079/80. Nepal is on the brink of getting 5G network reach as Ntc has started a 5G trial in Kathmandu. For now, 4G remains Nepal’s best possible network, fulfilling the internet needs of most users.
