Key Takeaways
- The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has instructed cellular operators to report theft and vandalism cases immediately.
- More than 9,200 incidents of theft and vandalism have been recorded in the past 11 months.
- The PTA is working with the Power Division and electricity distribution companies to ensure uninterrupted power supply to telecom towers.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has directed all cellular mobile operators to promptly report theft and vandalism incidents involving telecom infrastructure. This directive comes in response to a critical level of attacks on telecom sites across the country, with over 9,200 incidents recorded in the past 11 months.
According to a report submitted to a parliamentary committee, nearly 16 percent of Pakistan’s cellular sites have been affected by these incidents. The PTA has emphasized the importance of timely registration of First Information Reports (FIRs) to ensure the swift resolution of these cases.
The PTA has also instructed mobile operators to follow up on registered cases with law enforcement agencies until their conclusion. This move is part of a broader effort to protect telecom infrastructure and maintain network services, which are crucial for the country’s digital economy.
In a related development, the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication has engaged the PTA and the Ministry of Law and Justice to address the issue. The PTA has initiated consultations with telecom licensees and is seeking their recommendations for submission to the government.
To address power-related issues at telecom sites, the PTA has raised the matter with the Power Division, the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority, and electricity distribution companies. A committee headed by the IT and Telecommunication secretary will examine dedicated and express feeders, smart grids, smart transformers, and industrial electricity tariffs to reduce load shedding and ensure an uninterrupted power supply to telecom towers.
The PTA’s directives were issued after a subcommittee investigated internet service disruptions and reports of diesel theft from telecom towers in different parts of the country. These incidents have significantly impacted network services, leading to a need for urgent action.
The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication has advised the PTA to take these steps, recognizing the critical role of telecom infrastructure in the country’s digital landscape. The PTA is committed to working with various stakeholders to address these challenges and ensure the stability of Pakistan’s telecom network.
