Satellite Connectivity in GB: Urgent Reasons the Mountain Region Needs Better Internet

Shyok Times News Desk

Satellite Connectivity in GB has emerged as a key requirement for improving tourism, emergency response and environmental monitoring across Gilgit-Baltistan, Chief Minister Amjad Hussain told a Senate committee.

Speaking at a meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Cabinet Secretariat at the GB Assembly in Gilgit, CM Hussain said weak cellular and internet services were affecting the region's tourism industry and creating serious difficulties for relief and rescue operations during emergencies.

He stressed that satellite connectivity was particularly important for monitoring the region's 7,000 glaciers and strengthening disaster preparedness. Given GB's mountainous terrain and exposure to floods, landslides and avalanches, reliable communication is considered essential for coordinating emergency operations.

The chief minister urged the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to take a more proactive role in improving connectivity. He said the Special Communications Organisation (SCO) was a service provider, while regulatory responsibility rested with the PTA.

CM Hussain also noted that fibre-optic networks were practical mainly in urban areas, while difficult terrain limited their expansion into remote communities. Satellite-based services could therefore provide an important alternative for isolated valleys.

PTA Chairman retired Gen Hafeezur Rehman told the committee that measures were being taken, following Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's directives, to improve internet services in GB and address connectivity-related challenges.

Committee Chairman Senator Mahmood-ul-Hassan said GB's tourism potential made reliable, high-speed internet increasingly important. He called for another meeting involving relevant authorities and private telecom companies to discuss improvements.

The committee also reviewed disaster preparedness, early-warning systems, rescue facilities and the impact of floods, landslides and avalanches. Officials from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) briefed members on relief operations and disaster-related damages.

The panel further directed authorities to improve oil and LPG storage capacity in GB and address supply-related issues with the federal petroleum ministry.

The meeting also discussed the potential establishment of a special technology zone in the region, with officials noting that GB's tax-free status could support technology-sector investment.

For further information on disaster preparedness, readers can consult the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). Readers can also explore Shyok Times' coverage of Gilgit-Baltistan's tourism and regional developments.

External Resources (DoFollow Links):

Follow more at DAWN: Poor connectivity in GB hampers tourism, disaster response

Further Sources on Radio Pakistan: GB CM stresses satellite connectivity for timely