Iraq and Iran agree to boost telecom services for Arbaeen pilgrims through joint coordination

Iraq and Iran agree to boost telecom services for Arbaeen pilgrims through joint coordination
…………………..

As part of Iraq’s preparations for this year’s Arbaeen pilgrimage, the Iraqi Communications and Media Commission (CMC) has reached an agreement with its Iranian counterpart to enhance telecommunications services for the millions of pilgrims expected to take part in the annual religious gathering.

The agreement followed a two-day meeting hosted by CMC Chairman Dr. Nofal Abu Ragheef in Baghdad, with the visiting Iranian delegation led by Hamid Fattahi, representing the Iranian ICT sector. Discussions focused on expanding network capacity and improving service quality, particularly in high-density areas along pilgrimage routes.

A joint technical team will be established to oversee implementation of the agreement, with plans to facilitate direct telecom infrastructure integration through the Mehran and Shalamcheh border crossings. The move is expected to significantly boost bandwidth and data capacity in critical zones.

The two sides also agreed to introduce a dedicated, toll-free emergency number for pilgrims, and to broadcast bilingual voice guidance in Arabic and Persian. Additionally, they discussed deploying free public Wi-Fi access points on 5 GHz bands in crowded areas to ensure consistent connectivity.

Further provisions include setting up customer service centers across Iraq to assist with SIM card replacements and repairs, and establishing a mechanism for the exchange of technical performance reports to maintain service quality during the pilgrimage.

These joint efforts aim to provide a seamless communication environment during Arbaeen, reflecting Iraq’s ongoing commitment to managing the pilgrimage with high regulatory and technological standards.