Telecom companies are investing significantly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with 43 new sites added across Hangu and Kurram districts in the past year. This expansion is a major step toward enhancing service quality, addressing network issues, and boosting data and voice accessibility for residents in these areas.
Why This Expansion Matters for Local Connectivity
These additions aim to:
- Improve network reliability in previously underserved areas
- Enhance data speeds with more 4G-enabled sites
- Provide consistent coverage to reduce connectivity gaps
This growth highlights the collaborative effort between telecom companies and the Ministry of IT and Telecom to meet rising user demands.
📍 New Installations by District
Hangu: A Major Focus on Connectivity
In Hangu, 30 new telecom sites were added, making it one of the primary areas for development. Here’s how telecom providers contributed:
- Ufone led the expansion by installing 19 new sites and upgrading 28 existing sites to 4G.
- Zong followed with 8 new installations, supporting a stronger network presence.
- Jazz contributed with 3 new sites, while Telenor did not add any new locations in Hangu this year.
This expansion in Hangu is set to improve data speeds and network reliability, offering users faster and more consistent internet access.
Kurram: New Sites for Improved Coverage
Kurram district saw the installation of 13 new sites, enhancing the area’s connectivity options. Here’s the provider breakdown:
- Ufone added 9 sites, supporting data speed and network availability.
- Jazz installed 3 sites, plus an upgrade to 4G on four sites.
- Zong installed 1 site, with an upgrade in the quality of its services.
In both Hangu and Kurram, users are now experiencing higher data speeds and better call quality, making it easier for residents to connect, communicate, and collaborate online.
🛠️ Ongoing Upgrades and Quality Checks
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is actively involved in pushing for improvements and has directed operators to take key steps, including:
- New site installations and upgrades from 2G to 4G
- VoLTE enhancements for Jazz, Zong, and Telenor, leading to clearer call quality
- Voice over Wi-Fi (VoWiFi) adoption by Jazz, increasing call reliability indoors
- Targeted support for area-specific issues through PTA’s Complaint Management System (CMS)
📊 Results from Independent Quality of Service (QoS) Surveys
Independent surveys conducted by the PTA reveal significant improvements in network performance. In Hangu, data services by Ufone and voice services by Jazz met compliance standards, reflecting the effectiveness of these upgrades. While on-ground surveys in Kurram were limited due to security concerns, the PTA continues to monitor network quality remotely, ensuring ongoing improvements.
Looking Ahead: A Brighter, More Connected Future
The commitment to improving connectivity in Hangu and Kurram is a promising development for users, allowing for better communication, education, and business opportunities. The PTA and telecom providers are setting a solid foundation for digital growth in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and these investments will likely bring long-term benefits to the region.
