WEBDESK: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued an advisory in light of ongoing and possible floods caused by heavy rain across the country.
PTA has established a National Emergency Telecommunication Coordination Centre. All telecom companies have been told to activate their emergency plans.
The advisory asks operators to ensure uninterrupted mobile and internet service in flood-hit areas. It also directs them to protect telecom infrastructure in sensitive locations. In case of any major issue, companies must immediately inform the PTA headquarters.
A rescue operation by the Pakistan Army is also under way to help tourists stranded on Babusar Road and the Karakoram Highway.
PTA has instructed mobile operators to submit a service update report every six hours. They are also told to share flood-related information, evacuation plans, and emergency contact numbers with the public in national and local languages.
Telecom companies must give priority communication access to rescue teams. Temporary mobile units should be set up where needed. Local loop operators are told to keep their franchises active to handle customer complaints.
At top-up points, complaint handling teams should be deployed. Customers must continue to receive basic services such as SIMs, balance recharge, and other essential facilities.
PTA also wants trained staff to be placed at local and regional levels to support field operations.
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