The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has developed a National Disaster Telecommunication Plan aimed at enhancing emergency response and disaster management across the country. The plan recognises the essential role of telecom networks in ensuring reliable communication during crises.
According to PTA, the draft plan has been submitted to the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication for approval following extensive consultations with stakeholders, including telecom operators and disaster management authorities.
Once approved, the plan will serve as the foundation for the Pakistan Emergency Telecommunication Services Regulations. These regulations will be shared with the public to collect feedback before being finalized, ensuring transparency and stakeholder involvement.
The primary objective of the plan is to create a structured and legally supported framework that guarantees continuous and dependable communication during natural disasters, emergencies, or national crises. By formalizing disaster telecom protocols, PTA aims to improve coordination among government agencies, first responders, and telecom service providers.
Experts have highlighted that reliable telecom infrastructure is vital for effective disaster response, enabling timely information dissemination, rescue operations, and public safety measures. With the National Disaster Telecommunication Plan, Pakistan is taking a proactive step toward enhancing resilience and reducing the impact of emergencies on communities.