Major local as well as international telecom companies and their employees contributed generously to relief fund for victims of the devastating earthquake that struck AJK and parts of NWFP on October 8.
In this hour of need, one must laud the excellent role of Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) for not only improving telecom infrastructure in the quake-hit areas but also extending generous cash and kind contribution.
PTA - a regulator of telecom industry in Pakistan - contributed Rs 200 million in President's Relief Fund, dispatched relief goods and an eleven-member team in quake-ravaged areas to participate in relief activities.
The Authority provided 43 wireless handsets with five base stations and walkie-talkies along with their accessories to help agencies undertaking relief operations in their telecommunication needs.
PTA also inspired telecommunication operators to improve telecommunication networks and donate generously for the rehabilitation of earthquake victims at a critical juncture of national history.
"We should stand together in making consolidated relief efforts for the calamity-affected people and should do whatever it takes to lend a helping hand at this hour of need and distress," said Chairman PTA, Major General Shahzada Alam Malik (Retd).
The other major initiative of PTA was to allow the licensed telecom operators to temporarily provide telecommunication facilities in Azad Jammu and Kashmir and other inaccessible areas.