गाउँको दूरदराजदेखि काठमाडौंको सिंहदरबारसम्म

Kathmandu: Nepal Telecom, the official telecom partner of Nepal Premier League (NPL) Season 3, has come under scrutiny after its mobile network and internet services reportedly failed to perform effectively at the Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground in Kirtipur. Spectators attending the opening match of the tournament faced difficulties due to poor network connectivity and unreliable mobile data services.

The NPL Season 3 is scheduled to run from Kartik 9 to Mangsir 5 at the Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, with Nepal Telecom collaborating as the tournament’s official telecom partner. However, the company’s inability to ensure reliable network and data services at a major national sporting event expected to attract thousands of spectators has raised questions about its service capacity and technical preparedness.

During the opening match between Lumbini Lions and Sudurpaschim Royals, spectators at the venue complained about problems with mobile network connectivity and internet access. Many reported that their phones were unable to receive a stable network signal, mobile data was not working properly, and even basic digital services were difficult to use, leaving them frustrated.

At a popular sporting event like the NPL, spectators naturally expect to share photos and videos on social media, follow live match updates, stay in touch with family and friends, and access online services. However, complaints suggest that the poor performance of mobile services at the cricket ground prevented spectators from enjoying even these basic communication facilities.

The irony is that Nepal Telecom, the tournament’s official telecom partner, is the very service provider expected to ensure reliable telecommunications for spectators. Despite gaining an opportunity to promote its brand through the competition, the state-owned telecom operator has apparently failed to deliver a satisfactory user experience, raising questions about the effectiveness of its partnership and service delivery.

At sporting events that draw large crowds, increased demand can put significant pressure on mobile networks. Adequate network capacity management and technical preparation are therefore essential. The problems reported at the TU Cricket Ground have raised questions about whether Nepal Telecom made sufficient technical arrangements and conducted the necessary preparations before the tournament began.

Attempts were made to obtain Nepal Telecom’s official response regarding the network and data service problems at the venue. The company’s information officer and spokesperson were contacted repeatedly by phone and through other channels. However, no response had been received from either official by the time this report was prepared.

The reason for the officials’ failure to respond remains unclear. Nevertheless, an official explanation is necessary when questions are raised about the quality of services provided by a public service institution. Nepal Telecom should clarify what caused the reported network problems and what measures it intends to take to ensure reliable connectivity for spectators throughout the tournament.