Areas without network: ANACOM asks operators to activate national roaming

Portugal's National Communications Authority (ANACOM) has directed telecom operators to enable national roaming in areas experiencing severe communication outages due to recent adverse weather. This directive aims to restore connectivity and ensure essential communication services remain accessible to citizens. The measure highlights the ongoing challenges in maintaining robust digital infrastructure, particularly in the face of environmental disruptions. The request for national roaming activation specifically targets localities where network failures have been significant. This allows users of one mobile network to connect to another operator's network when their own service is unavailable. Such a measure underscores the importance of network resilience and interoperability in the European digital landscape. This initiative directly impacts citizens and businesses in affected regions, guaranteeing them continued access to vital communication channels for personal use and operational continuity. The broader implication is the push for more resilient and inclusive digital connectivity across the continent, ensuring no user is left disconnected due to localized infrastructure issues. As a next step, ANACOM will likely assess the effectiveness of this measure and consider future strategies for enhancing national network redundancy.