LAKKI MARWAT: The district administration has formally approached the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) with a request to ensure measures to address mobile service disruption and improve internet connectivity in the urban and rural areas of Lakki Marwat.

Residents, especially those doing online business, complained about poor mobile network services and internet shutdowns along with low connectivity especially.

They said they used social media platforms to raise their voice against the issue for intervention of government.

An online businessman told Dawn that that poor internet connectivity had hindered timely online and digital payments.

“If the situation persists, the online businesses will suffer and digital payments will be delayed,” he said.

Digital marketers and students are among the most affected groups.

A social media activist said that internet disruptions had made it difficult for users to receive and send photos, videos and voice messages on chat apps.

When contacted, an official of the district administration said that Deputy Commissioner Hamidullah Khan had asked PTA through an official letter to take steps to strengthen and improve network coverage and internet connectivity across the district.

He said that the administration’s move came in response of numerous public complaints about prolonged mobile signal outages, weak coverage and malfunctioning mobile phone towers.

“The deputy commissioner has urged PTA officials to direct telecom operators to ensure early restoration and continuous operation of all affected towers and replace or repair faulty solar and power backup systems,” he said.

Published in Dawn, November 11th, 2025