Senate Committee Demands Improved Telecom Access and Nationwide Offline 911 Helpline

The Senate Functional Committee on Problems of Less Developed Areas has called on the government to enhance telecom services in underdeveloped regions and urgently launch a 911 emergency helpline that operates without requiring mobile or internet connectivity.

Chaired by Senator Agha Shahzaib Durrani, the committee convened to evaluate the performance of the Universal Service Fund (USF) in unserved and underserved areas of Balochistan, Sindh, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). The session opened with a strong condemnation of the recent terrorist attack on a school bus in Balochistan, prompting calls for increased security for vulnerable communities.

USF’s CEO briefed the committee on its federally supported projects focused on expanding mobile, broadband, and optical fiber connectivity, especially along highways and tourist sites. Despite these efforts, the CEO cited serious challenges such as security threats, land disputes, and delays in project approvals.

While 90% of the country is reportedly covered by telecom services, the remaining 10%—mostly remote regions—continue to face connectivity issues. Senator Aimal Wali Khan highlighted persistent internet problems in areas such as Mohmand, Bajaur, Waziristan, Khyber, Kurram, and Orakzai. The committee was informed of 24 ongoing projects in KP aimed at addressing these gaps.

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Internet disruptions in Balochistan were also discussed, with the Ministry of IT attributing some restrictions to Interior Ministry security directives. The committee urged both ministries to devise alternative strategies to ensure continued service without compromising national security.

A key recommendation included the launch of a nationwide, offline 911 emergency helpline and a public awareness campaign to educate citizens on how to use it. The committee emphasized the importance of emergency accessibility, regardless of network availability.

Additionally, telecom operators were directed to explain their pricing structures, taxation policies, and provide details on their corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives to ensure meaningful contributions to public welfare.

The committee concluded by stressing that digital inclusion and reliable emergency access should be treated as national priorities, pledging ongoing oversight to guarantee equitable