Tech Desk 
Feb 10, 2025
A representational image. — Google Play/ Canva
In what seems to be a viable solution to the longstanding problem, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) on Monday suggested that the installation of express feeders could resolve network issues across Karachi prompted by prolonged power outages.
The telecom authority provided the aforestated suggestion while briefing the National Assembly Standing Committee on IT and Telecom on the city's network woes.
A survey conducted by PTA to navigate Karachi's network problems suggested that key performance indicators (KPIs) of voice and data services were in line with the standard set forth under the regulatory framework. However, network availability was badly affected owing to load-shedding, as reported by ProPakistani.
Survey results indicated that extended power outages caused extensive network downtime in key districts, including Central, East, South, West, and Malir.
In the wake of insufficient backup to sustain telecom infrastructure and its functionality, the telecom regulatory body recommended the government integrate express feeders to ensure unhindered power to telecom towers.
In an analysis of System Parameters (OSS KPIs) for Q4 2024, PTA concluded that while Zong and Ufone registered below-par network disruptions, Jazz underwent network blackouts in the Malir region only. Call completion and 4G data speeds were recorded above the required thresholds amid power-related disruptions.
