Telcos activate emergency protocols to safeguard border connectivity amid govt alert

The ministry also instructed telcos to stock adequate diesel reserves for generator (DG) sets to ensure uninterrupted power to telecom equipment.

Telecom operators across India have begun implementing emergency protocols to ensure uninterrupted connectivity, particularly to Emergency Operations Centres (EOCs) at both state and district levels, following fresh directives from the central government.

The Ministry of Communications, in its May 7 communication to telcos, invoked the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) 2020 for telecom services in disaster scenarios, directing all telecom service providers to bolster network resilience and coordination in light of potential emergencies.

Special emphasis is being placed on keeping base transceiver station (BTS) towers within 100 km of international borders fully operational at all times, as mandated by the government.

Executives at private telecom operators confirmed that disaster-readiness work is already underway. “All systems are in place and SOPs are being followed since the directive came from the ministry,” one executive said. Another added, “The coordination among telcos is immediate, and we are in regular touch with authorities, especially in border districts.”

A senior official at the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) said all telecom companies have been instructed to remain vigilant and fully prepared.

In a letter dated May 7, the Ministry’s disaster management division directed private and state-owned telecom operators to maintain nationwide network continuity and ensure seamless coordination. The ministry also stressed the need for telcos to compile and maintain updated lists of critical telecom infrastructure, particularly in border districts, to safeguard these assets during emergencies.

To support these efforts, DoT’s Licensed Service Area (LSA) heads have been instructed to coordinate with state governments to facilitate the logistical movement of telecom teams during crises and assist in securing vital telecom infrastructure.

“On receipt of request from the Ministry of Defence, operation of desired communication facilities on immediate/specified days may be arranged without fail,” the ministry said in the letter.

The ministry also instructed telcos to stock adequate diesel reserves for generator (DG) sets to ensure uninterrupted power to telecom equipment. Additionally, operators have been asked to strategically deploy spare teams, including maintenance crews and critical hardware, at key locations to enable rapid service restoration when needed.

Comprehensive testing of communication equipment, media paths, and backup systems has also been ordered to confirm operational readiness. Furthermore, all telcos are required to test the Intra-Circle Roaming (ICR) facility and, where necessary, request activation through the DDG (Disaster Management) in accordance with policy.