The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) instructed telecom operators to create a strategy to handle any emergency situation out of concern about losses resulting from the Biparjoy cyclone.
PTA has ordered telecom firms to create and begin implementing a backup plan for cyclone-affected areas.
According to sources, PTA officials met with representatives of telecom companies at the request of IT Minister Syed Aminul Haq.
The discussion focused on potential coastal damage from the Biparjoy cyclone and ways to safeguard communications infrastructure.
PTA Orders Telcos To Be Vigilant
The telecommunication authority told the telcos to maintain 8 to 12 hours of petrol on hand during the Biparjoy cyclone, according to the sources, in this meeting to assure the availability of telecom services in any situation.
The PTA has instructed the telecom firms to keep their technical teams in storm-prone regions so that any infrastructure damage can be quickly fixed or replaced.
According to IT Ministry representatives, the situation is being watched and is being coordinated by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), Ministry of IT and Telecom, and the federal and provincial governments.
Since the Murree incident and flood in 2022 had an impact on telecom services, Federal Minister Syed Aminul Haq has ordered that preventative steps be taken this time.
Amin ul Haq has reportedly cancelled his trip to Islamabad, according to reports. He would remain in Karachi for the ensuing two to three days and keep an eye on the telecom services situation himself.
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