Dera Bugti is the only district in Pakistan which does not have a cellular network
SUI: Dera Bugti district has the largest gas field of Pakistan, which produces gas for the entire country. Many big companies are operating here. Despite this, the district is deprived of many basic facilities and the education system here is extremely backward. Out of every 100 women, only 30 go to school. Moreover, Dera Bugti is the only district in Pakistan which does not have a cellular network. Had there been a mobile network in the district, people could have stayed in their hometowns to enjoy the benefits of better communication technologies. This could have helped bring awareness regarding various important issues to the people of the area, including the importance of educating girls. It is noted that some boys move out of Dera Bugti to pursue their education and these boys, upon returning, are now becoming part of a generation that is trying to bring about some change.
Whenever questions have been asked of the authorities concerned about the provision of cellular network services, we are told that because of the security situation prevailing in the area, this is not possible. However, Sui is as secure as any other town of Balochistan. People of Sui are suffering because of a lack of cellular network services. It is, therefore, requested of the higher authorities to make efforts to start cellular network services in Dera Bugti.
Sheeba Hambhi
Published in The Express Tribune, April 3rd, 2015.
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