PTA Sets Up National Emergency Centre to Ensure Telecom Services During Floods
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has launched a National Emergency Telecommunication Coordination Centre (NETCC) to oversee and coordinate the delivery of uninterrupted telecom services amid ongoing and potential flood emergencies across the country.
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This initiative follows a comprehensive advisory issued to all telecom operators, including those in Azad Jammu & Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, stressing the essential role of reliable communication infrastructure during natural disasters.
Key Directives for Telecom Operators
PTA has instructed telecom companies to activate contingency plans that ensure continued voice and data services, especially in high-risk and flood-affected areas. Operators must:
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Secure physical infrastructure in line with CTDISR standards
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Keep fuel, spare parts, and backup resources ready
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Equip field teams for safe and efficient operations
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Report major outages immediately to NETCC and regional PTA offices, with updates every six hours
Emergency Communication Measures
To support relief efforts and public safety, the advisory includes:
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Broadcasting flood alerts, evacuation messages, and emergency contacts in national and regional languages
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Enabling Location-Based Services (LBS) for targeted notifications
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Deploying temporary network infrastructure, such as Cells on Wheels (COWs) and VSAT terminals, to restore connectivity in disaster-struck areas
Customer Access & Coordination
PTA also emphasized maintaining access to essential telecom services, including:
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Availability of SIM cards, top-ups, and scratch cards
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Operation of service outlets and franchises in collaboration with local authorities
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Prompt response to customer complaints through mobile support units trained in disaster protocols
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Stakeholder Engagement
A copy of the advisory has been shared with:
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All telecom licensees
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National and Provincial Disaster Management Authorities
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Chief Secretaries of all provinces, AJK, and GB
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Relevant federal ministries, armed forces, law enforcement, and PTA officials
With this initiative, the PTA aims to strengthen Pakistan’s telecom resilience during emergencies, ensuring that communication networks remain functional to support public safety and disaster response efforts.
