The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has provided a free on-net calling option for all individuals trapped in Murree and Galliat due to severe snowfall, in consideration of the prevailing emergency situation.
“In view of the emergency circumstances in Murree and Galliat areas, mobile phone users who are currently present in these locations with no balance have been supplied with free on-net calling option,” the PTA stated in a statement.
All Pakistani mobile phone companies will offer the service to stranded customers who have run out of balance.
“Cellular mobile providers have offered free calling on their own network to consumers with zero balance who are trapped in Galliat zones, as directed by the PTA. For more information, users should contact their respective operators “Added the statement.
Read more: 22 dead as heavy snowfall traps tourists in their vehicles in Murree
“Moreover, PTA has also asked all telecom providers to ensure continuous services to customers and retain enough backup arrangements in case of power outages,” the PTA said, adding that users would be provided with “uninterrupted services” to deal with the situation.
PTA acknowledges and appreciates the efforts by CMOs and PTCL to keep their sites operational in snow calamity hit areas of Murree and Galiyat. PTA also lauds support of Pak Army for assisting in restoration of telecom services.
— PTA (@PTAofficialpk) January 9, 2022
Following the disastrous circumstances in more than 20 people died, the federal government has sent Pakistan Army and other civil-armed forces for rescue operations.
Murree has been declared a calamity-affected area by the Punjab government, with chief minister Usman Buzdar ordering local administration to open government offices and rest homes to stranded tourists.
