ISLAMABAD

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has expressed serious concern over repeated fiber optic cable cuts in Chitral, warning that ongoing damage to telecom infrastructure during road construction projects is causing major disruptions to internet and mobile services in the region.

In an official statement, the regulator said increasing incidents of fiber cuts linked to road excavation and construction work — particularly during projects carried out by the National Highway Authority — are affecting the continuity of communication services and creating difficulties for residents.

The PTA warned that repeated damage to underground fiber optic infrastructure is not only disrupting broadband and mobile connectivity but could also impact emergency communication systems in remote areas.

Officials stressed the need for stronger coordination between telecom operators, contractors and government departments before the start of excavation and construction activities.

“Continuous telecom services in the public interest remain our top priority,” the authority said, urging all stakeholders to adopt immediate preventive measures to avoid further disruptions.

The regulator called for the implementation of strict communication protocols and directed relevant institutions to ensure telecom companies are consulted before construction work begins near fiber routes.

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority also proposed joint site surveys and timely information-sharing mechanisms to reduce the risk of accidental cable damage during infrastructure development projects.

According to officials, the establishment of an integrated protection framework for underground telecom infrastructure has become essential as Pakistan expands road and connectivity projects in mountainous regions.

The authority further instructed officials of the National Highway Authority and associated contractors to maintain full coordination with telecom operators, including Zong, Jazz, Ufone, Telenor Pakistan and PTCL.

PTA said focal persons from major telecom companies have also been linked with relevant departments to improve coordination and ensure faster response during emergencies or repair operations.

Industry experts say fiber cuts remain one of the biggest causes of internet outages in Pakistan, particularly in remote northern areas where a limited number of fiber routes handle critical communications traffic.

The latest warning comes as Pakistan continues efforts to improve digital connectivity and telecom infrastructure in underserved regions through ongoing fiberization and broadband expansion projects.