Rising unannounced load-shedding in the country has severely affected the telecom sector and consumers, with “internet load-shedding” also coming into effect.
Hours-long unannounced electricity outages across the country have pushed mobile broadband and other telecom services into crisis. The availability of mobile networks and the quality of service have suffered adverse effects.
Consumers are facing issues including call drops and slow internet speeds, while users in both urban and rural areas have complained of mobile internet remaining suspended for hours.
Telecom sources said companies lack sufficient alternative arrangements to keep mobile towers continuously operational. In particular, backup systems in rural and remote areas remain weak or altogether absent.
According to telecom operators, it has become difficult to maintain service quality during increased load-shedding. Following the rise in petrol and diesel prices, the lack of electricity has multiplied energy-based operational costs several times.
Battery backup at most mobile towers remains limited to two to six hours. During prolonged outages, the use of generators becomes necessary; however, due to expensive fuel, this is no longer feasible at every location.
