Residents without cellphone service in Region 9

Over the last few days, residents of Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) have been significantly inconvenienced owing to the disruptions to mobile service from telecommunications giant, GTT.

The mobile service went down on Saturday last, greatly impacting business operations and leisure activities in many areas across the Region.

GTT mobile subscribers were unable to send or receive calls, text messages or access the Internet.

Reports indicate that residents of North Rupununi and Central Rupununi have been particularly affected, since commercial activities are abundant in those areas.

Residents have also expressed concern that GTT failed to promptly inform the public of the disruption to the service and to keep them updated on progress in addressing the matter.

In a Facebook post, parliamentarian Alister Charlie vented about the lack of customer service.

“Come on GTT, be professional and let the subscribers know exactly what is happening and how soon will the service be restored,” he posted.

Contacted for a comment on the matter, the company explained that the disruption was as a result of damage to equipment at its Lethem facility.

On Tuesday, GTT Public Relations Officer (PRO) Allison Parker advised that the information would be broadcast on the recently-commissioned radio station in the Region.

According to the statement from the company, engineers are working to replace the equipment and conduct urgent repairs.

In apologising for the inconvenience caused, the company announced that mobile services should be restored fully today.