Telcos, DoT Establish Joint Monitoring Hub Amid Security Concerns.

In response to escalating tensions with Pakistan, major telecom operators Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea have jointly established a national-level monitoring centre in collaboration with the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). The initiative aims to guarantee uninterrupted telecom services and bolster disaster resilience across the country, according to senior telco officials. The decision to set up this crucial centre was finalized during a meeting held with the DoT on Wednesday.

The joint monitoring centre became operational on Thursday and is functioning as a vital real-time communication bridge between the DoT, the Ministry of Home Affairs, and the telecom operators. "We were instructed to operationalize the centre with immediate effect and ensure round-the-clock staffing. The operators have acted swiftly to comply. All necessary measures, in accordance with disaster management protocols, have been put in place," a senior official from one of the telecom companies confirmed.

As part of enhanced preparedness measures, telecom companies participated in a nationwide mock drill that involved temporarily switching off signal lights atop high towers, particularly those located near airports or within flight paths. Furthermore, operators have received specific directives to ensure the continuous operation of all telecom towers and ground infrastructure situated within a designated distance from the border, irrespective of prevailing circumstances.

Notably, officials from two prominent private sector telecom companies indicated that, as of now, they have not received any requests from local administrative bodies to suspend services in any specific regions. This suggests a focus on maintaining operational readiness and resilience rather than preemptive shutdowns. The establishment of this joint monitoring centre underscores the critical role of telecommunications infrastructure in national security and disaster management, ensuring seamless coordination between government agencies and service providers during times of heightened geopolitical tension.