Karachi, July 18, 2018 (PPI-OT): A meeting of augmenting network connectivity in far flung areas during General election – 2018 was held under the chairmanship of Sindh Home Secretary, at his office in the Home Department here. The Chair greeted the participants. It was decided to ensure that General Elections-2018 scheduled on 25-07-2018 may be conducted in a safe, secure and peaceful environment.
Home Secretary further explained that during visiting the polling stations in far flung areas of the Province, it was observed by the Chief Secretary that signals connectivity/network availability is either very poor or unavailable in those areas. This would pose a great deal of problems to the polling staff while communicating with the Law Enforcement Agencies, the District Administration and the Returning Officers/District Returning Officers.
The Home Secretary urged upon Pakistan Telecommunication Authority and all other Telecom Companies should come forward and play a positive and pro-active role in this national cause by addressing this sensitive issue.
The representatives of Telecom companies were of the view that in the rural areas the problem of reduced signals connectivity/network availability is primarily because of power outages lasting for considerable time. They also explained that in order to enhance the Network availability in far flung areas, the existing network can be optimized for minimum coverage. They further said that Cells on Wheels (Cows)/ Mobile Based Stations can be made available if informed well on time.
Keeping in view the importance of optimum network connectivity for General Elections-2018, the following decisions were unanimously taken in the meeting. The decisions are all Telecom Operators would make sure that there is enhanced vigilance through Network Management Center (NOC) so that areas without Network Connectivity are immediately identified for rectification.
Pakistan Telecommunication Authority will form Coordination/Monitoring Cells at Divisional Levels whose contact numbers would be shared with the District Administration for redressal of issues on immediate and timely basis. All Telecom Operators would make sure that there is uninterrupted supply of electricity to all towers by making adequate availability of alternate source of electricity.
Existing Network would be augmented for maximum coverage. Pakistan Telecommunication Authority would issue directions to all Telecom Companies to arrange Cells on Wheels (CoWs)/Mobile Based Stations as per the demand of the Divisional Commissioners. Next meeting will be held to review the decisions taken in the said meeting.
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