MUMBAI: In view of the rising tensions with Pakistan, the Indian government has urgently directed telecommunication companies to ensure uninterrupted communication services, particularly in areas adjoining the international border. This instruction was made on Friday, May 9, following coordination with the Defence Ministry, which stressed the critical role that telecom infrastructure plays in maintaining national security at times of high risk.
Sources revealed that telecom operators have been directed to identify and secure crucial infrastructure within a 100-kilometre radius of the border. This includes keeping cell towers and transceiver stations operational even when there is no power supply or in case of attacks.
Operators must also set up war rooms, maintain an efficient enough fuel reserve, and install diesel generators to power towers continuously for this purpose. Repair teams are also being stationed along critical geographic lines for quick restoration of any damaged network components.
The government also advised companies to test the Intra Circle Roaming (ICR) systems, which will automatically switch users to another network if one provider's towers go down, according to a source privy to developments. The system maintains connectivity even during emergencies.
All the major telecom players have agreed to comply with the directive and affirmed that contingency plans are in place. The government, however, will keep a close watch of the international scenario and expects full cooperation to maintain communication lines that are of vital importance for military, emergency services and public safety.
This move shows how digital infrastructure is being given importance as a strategic asset in the broader national security response under which India gears up to counter tensions across borders.
[Source Credit: CNBCTV 18 ]
