The Office of the Communications Authority (OFCA) announced today (9 May 2024) that mobile network operators (MNOs) have been actively setting up fifth generation mobile services (5G) radio base stations (RBSs) at major public event venues and nearby government venues to implement the policy measure relating to the enhancement of 5G network capacity at major public event venues as specified in the 2023 Policy Address.
Major public event venues undergoing enhancement of 5G network capacity in the first phase include Central Harbourfront Event Space, Hong Kong Coliseum, Kai Tak Sports Park, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC), AsiaWorld-Expo (AWE) and Victoria Park. The Commerce and Economic Development Bureau and OFCA have been proactively co-ordinating with MNOs, relevant venue managers and government departments to streamline the approval and installation procedures so as to facilitate prompt installation of 5G RBSs by MNOs at these venues, enhancing their 5G network capacity and ensuring smoother communications services for mobile users attending major public events at these venues.
A spokesman for OFCA welcomed the co-operation and co-ordination of venue managers and relevant government departments, which have facilitated the prompt commencement of the relevant 5G RBS installation works at these venues with satisfactory progress made thus far. At present, four MNOs have completed the installation of and activated the 5G RBSs at HKCEC, AWE and near Victoria Park. After completion of the installation works, 4G network services at HKCEC and AWE have been upgraded to 5G. Following the activation of the 5G RBS near Victoria Park, 5G network capacity at the aforementioned locations has also been significantly enhanced. In addition, the installation works of 5G RBSs at Central Harbourfront Event Space, Hong Kong Coliseum and Kai Tak Sports Park have commenced progressively, and the 5G RBSs at Central Harbourfront Event Space and Hong Kong Coliseum will be activated shortly in phases.
"OFCA will continue to work closely with relevant government departments and MNOs to enhance 5G network capacity at more major public event venues through installation of additional mobile infrastructures, with a view to providing mobile users with seamless, secure and efficient communication services, ensuring smooth proceeding of major public events and supporting Hong Kong's reputation as a host city for international mega events with the provision of high-quality and reliable telecommunications infrastructure," the spokesman added.
Office of the Communications Authority
9 May 2024