GILGIT:Amid the relentless power crisis in Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B), with up to 22 hours of load shedding, the Special Communication Organisation (SCO), responsible for telecommunications in the region, is under fire for its poor internet and cellular services.
While SCO bears the brunt of criticism, stakeholders argue that solely blaming the organisation was unjustified as it overlooks the unprecedented challenges posed by the ongoing power shortages.Operating in G-B for decades, SCO has persevered to provide communication services, navigating through formidable obstacles to bridge the communication gap in the mountainous terrain.
Despite its longstanding efforts, recent public outcry highlights the frustration of G-B residents grappling with erratic internet connectivity and cellular service disruptions.”We are fed up with the poor internet and cellular services, especially during these extended power outages,” a local resident said, reflecting the sentiments echoed across the region.
The criticism comes in the backdrop of 22 hours of load shedding in a region that according to official statistics has 40-megawatt power generation potential. The cellular and internet services haven’t been spared either by the power crisis.
“Internet services in IT centres across the region are suite uninterrupted which is a good sign,” said a freelancer who works in an IT centre established in Gilgit by the SCO for freelancers.In response to the criticism, an SCO official defended the organisation’s efforts, highlighting the challenges posed by the prolonged power crisis.
“SCO is committed to providing uninterrupted services to the people of Gilgit-Baltistan. However, the current power shortages severely impact our operations, making it challenging to maintain consistent connectivity 24/7,” the official stated, adding “We are putting our resources into ensuring the maximum provision of our services in the region.”
Successive governments have struggled to address the underlying issue of power shortages in G-B, leaving SCO to navigate the crisis with limited resources.Despite its best efforts to mitigate the impact on telecommunication services, SCO finds itself at the centre of public discontent amid the prevailing circumstances.
Earlier, the government of Gilgit-Baltistan has constituted an eight-member committee to inquire cellular companies about poor internet connectivity in the remote, mountainous region, amid complaints by residents of poor connection and slow speed of internet.
GB has not officially been part of Pakistan, but forms part of the portion of disputed Kashmir that is administered by Pakistan. The region is Pakistan’s only land link to China and is at the heart of the $65 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) infrastructure development program.
Over the past few years, residents of GB have moved towards freelancing and online earning in the absence of sufficient opportunities and industry in the region. But they say poor internet connectivity has multiplied their woes.
