Shanghai will install 5,000 5G base stations by the end of September, said an NPC deputy at this year’s two sessions.

On March 6, the Shanghai delegation deliberated the 2019 Government Work Report delivered by Premier Li Keqiang. During these deliberations, Chen Li, deputy of the National People’s Congress and general manager of China Mobile Shanghai, announced an important piece of news.

(Chen Li at the two sessions)

Chen suggested that 5G be promoted in Shanghai first, as plans are already highly advanced. “By the end of March, we will set up the first ‘Double Gigabit’ demonstration area.” He added, “No less than 5,000 5G base stations will be installed citywide by the end of September 2019. Gigabit broadband will cover 5.6 million households and 3,000 buildings, making Shanghai an international model of world-class information infrastructure and promoting the high-quality synergy of the Yangtze River Delta.”(“Double Gigabit” means 1 Gbps mobile and fixed broadband.)

According to Chen Li, Shanghai has the basis of piloting 5G technology. Last year, the added value of strategic emerging industries accounted for 16.7% of Shanghai’s GDP, and the added value of the information services industry increased by 18.5%. As the leading city in the Yangtze River Delta, Shanghai boasts a sound overall economic environment, systematic industrial planning and layout, huge market potential, and a pool of outstanding talent. Moreover, 5G technology will empower the digital economy of Shanghai.

In the meantime, 5G development faces tough challenges ahead, as Chen pointed out. No laws or regulations on the construction and protection of communications infrastructure have been enacted across the country. Because of that, the construction process of communications infrastructure has been troubled. Some infrastructure in residential and commercial buildings was dismantled randomly. Infrastructure resources, like power supply, generator rooms and pipes, are highly needed for 5G technology. Therefore, Chen suggested that 5G construction be lawfully identified as public infrastructure and be included in overall urban planning.