ALGIERS – The Minister of Post and Telecommunications, Sid Ali Zerrouki, issued a firm official warning on Wednesday to mobile telephony operators, demanding strict adherence to coverage standards and quality of service (QoS).
The Minister specified that any proven shortcomings would trigger regulatory measures and sanctions in accordance with current laws.Regulatory Oversight and Network . The warning was delivered during a working meeting chaired by the Minister, attended by the President of the Post and Electronic Communications Regulatory Authority (ARPCE) and representatives from the three mobile operators. This session is part of a continuous monitoring effort regarding the state of communication networks nationwide.
The meeting focused on evaluating network coverage along major highways, which are vital for the national economy and the movement of goods and people.Officials reviewed the coverage status of the East-West Highway following the expiration of previously set deadlines. This review was supported by field test results conducted by the Regulatory Authority to verify legal and contractual compliance. Minister Zerrouki emphasized the urgency of accelerating network expansion along strategic North-South axes, specifically National Roads 1, 3, and 6, with a focus on Saharan and remote regions.Emergency Access and Digital Equity:The Minister reiterated his prior directive requiring operators to ensure coverage in Southern provinces—even if at a baseline level—to guarantee access to emergency services.
Participants agreed on a strict timeline to complete network coverage by the end of the current year.Regular follow-ups will be conducted to ensure tangible and sustainable improvements in network quality.Minister Zerrouki reaffirmed that enhancing telecommunications quality is no longer an option but a national necessity. He framed the improvement as a vital link to citizen safety, transport support, and the reinforcement of digital equity across the entire Algerian territory.
