PTA Sets October Deadline for Telecom Operators to Fix Coverage Gaps
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has directed mobile network operators to address coverage problems in Islamabad and Rawalpindi by October and improve overall service quality across the twin cities.
The regulator has instructed telecom companies to eliminate existing coverage gaps and ensure reliable mobile connectivity in residential areas, surrounding localities and key travel routes.
Operators Told to Improve Coverage Across Twin Cities
PTA has asked mobile operators to provide stronger network coverage across all sectors and surrounding areas of Islamabad, as well as throughout Rawalpindi.
The instructions also cover major roads connecting and passing through the two cities, including Kashmir Highway and Islamabad Expressway.
Operators have been directed to identify weak coverage areas and take steps to improve network performance within the deadline set by the authority.
New Mobile Sites to Address Weak Signals
To tackle coverage gaps, PTA has instructed telecom companies to install additional mobile network sites wherever required.
The authority has also linked the expansion of network infrastructure with the rollout of new 5G spectrum bands, directing operators to deploy additional sites as part of their network upgrades.
PTA said improved infrastructure is necessary to provide better and more consistent connectivity to users across Rawalpindi and Islamabad.
PTA to Inspect Network Performance
The regulator will continue monitoring mobile network coverage in both cities.
PTA teams are scheduled to visit different locations across Rawalpindi and Islamabad next week to assess network performance and identify areas where coverage remains inadequate.
The inspections will help the authority determine whether operators are meeting the required service standards.
Operators Could Face Penalties
PTA has warned that mobile companies failing to address coverage and service-quality issues could face penalties.
The latest directions are intended to improve mobile connectivity across residential neighbourhoods, surrounding areas and major roads throughout the Rawalpindi-Islamabad region.
Telecom operators have been given until October to address the identified coverage gaps and improve network services.
