G-B facing communication crisis amid relentless power crisis

GILGIT: With up to 22 hours of load shedding during Gilgit-Baltistan’s (G-B) ongoing power crisis, the Special Communication Organization (SCO), in charge of the area’s telecommunications, is coming under fire for its subpar cellular and internet services.

Stakeholders contend that while SCO is the target of much criticism, blaming the organization alone was unfair because it ignored the extraordinary difficulties brought on by the continuous power outages.

Operating in G-B for decades, SCO has persevered to provide communication services, navigating through formidable obstacles to bridge the communication gap in the mountainous terrain.

The recent public outrage underscores the dissatisfaction of G-B residents dealing with unpredictable internet connectivity and interruptions to cellular service, despite the organization’s long-standing efforts.

An SCO representative responded to criticism of internet connectivity by outlining the difficulties brought about by the protracted power situation and defending the organization’s efforts.

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Successive governments have struggled to address the underlying issue of power shortages in G-B, leaving SCO to navigate the crisis with limited resources.

Even if SCO has made every attempt to lessen the impact on telecommunication services, given the current situation, it is at the center of public unrest.

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