Telecom Services Still Down in Murree After Snowstorm

Following the snowstorm in Murree, telecom services in several areas were affected due to electricity breakdown, and the non-availability of fuel for backup generators resulted in a shut down of mobile phones towers. In this regard, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has advised telecom operators to restore mobile phone services as soon as possible.

Responding to this, the telecom companies have stated that services in most areas have been restored, and the companies are facing difficulties restoring services in areas where electricity has not been restored. Telcos have asked PTA to approach IESCO for speedy restoration of electricity in the affected areas.

The Islamabad electricity company has provided an update in this regard. The company informed that two grid stations of IESCO, namely Guldana and Minhasan, are affected by heavy snowfall. Furthermore, out of 20 affected feeders of both grid stations, electricity has been restored on ten feeders, IESCO informed.

In its update, the company further informed that electricity had been restored on SiniBank, Public health, MCM, Guldana, company bagh, Pindi point, and Garhiyal feeders, and 50 percent of electricity has been restored on Barian and Kohala grids. IESCO assured that work is underway to restore electricity in Upper Topa, FAF, Patriata, GC, and PDCP feeders. However, complete restoration in all areas may take time due to forests in the respective areas.

Following the tragedy in Murree, mobile phone operators, on Sunday, started offering free on-net calls to tourists stranded in Murree and Galliat on PTA directions.

According to PTA, tourists currently present in these areas with no balance can avail this free calling facility. Users may contact their concerned operators for more information. PTA has also directed all telecom operators to ensure uninterrupted services to users and prepare enough backup arrangements in case of power outages.