IT Ministry Asks Power Distributors to Prioritize Power for Telecom Infrastructure

The Ministry of IT and Telecom Pakistan has instructed power distribution companies nationwide to prioritize electricity supply through dedicated express feeders for critical telecom infrastructure, as concerns grow over service disruptions.

Telecom networks across Pakistan are coming under increasing pressure due to prolonged power outages and rising fuel costs, with mobile service quality already declining in several areas. In response, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has proposed urgent steps, including exempting telecom infrastructure from load shedding and ensuring uninterrupted power supply to telecom towers.

Operators are currently relying on backup systems such as generators to keep services running, but these solutions are becoming difficult to sustain as outages last longer and fuel consumption rises. Increasing petroleum prices have further added to operational costs, putting additional strain on network performance across the country.

The regulator has also suggested shifting the telecom sector to an industrial electricity tariff to help reduce expenses and improve service reliability. Officials have warned that without immediate action, service quality may continue to decline, leading to more frequent disruptions for users.

The ministry has stressed the need for swift coordination among stakeholders, noting that early signs of network degradation are already visible due to ongoing power shortages.