Tensions are high between the two countries after India carried out strikes on terror camps in Pakistan in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack. In view of this, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has ordered all private and government telecom companies to ensure emergency-level preparedness.
Also, the Department of Telecommunications has also ordered telecom companies to secure their networks. The Department of Telecommunications has issued these instructions especially in view of the threat of potential cyber attacks.
Order to maintain uninterrupted connectivity
According to a report by Money Control, the order issued by the Ministry of Communications has directed telecom operators Airtel, Jio, BSNL and Vi to coordinate with each other to maintain uninterrupted connectivity and guarantee network operations. The meeting, which took place after India launched Operation Sindoor, asked the telecom companies to pay special attention to the border areas and prepare an updated list of infrastructure and installations to ensure their safety and continuous functioning in case of emergency.
In a letter to all telecom companies on May 7, the Department of Disaster Management of the Ministry of Telecom said, “Special emphasis should be given to ensuring smooth functioning of BTS locations within 100 km of the international border.” In addition, telecom operators should take necessary measures to maintain smooth communication in security situations and disaster situations. Work to ensure connectivity, especially at Emergency Operation Centres (EOCs) at both the state and district levels.
Strictly follow SOP
In its order, the Department of Telecom has directed the telecom companies to strictly follow the Standard Operating Procedures of 2020. This should be considered with immediate effect and necessary action should be taken. In addition, the Ministry has directed all LSA heads of the Department of Telecom to talk to the state governments to smoothen the movement of logistics of telecom companies in case of emergency and ensure their safety.
Roaming within the circle
During a disaster, telecom companies start intra-circle roaming service due to which users do not face any problem in network connectivity. Even during the cyclone that hit Odisha last year, telecom companies had enabled intra-circle roaming, due to which users did not face any network problem. When intra-circle roaming is enabled, in the event of a disaster and in the absence of a home network, users can make calls from their number using the network of any telecom operator.
