Hiring of Services of Satellite Communication for Chinese-Deployed Seismic Stations

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) Islamabad invites bids for the hiring of services of satellite communication dedicated to Chinese-deployed seismic stations across Pakistan. This procurement aims to replace the existing 4G and conventional Internet connectivity at eleven seismic stations with a more reliable satellite-based communication system to ensure continuous real-time transmission of seismic data to the National Seismic Monitoring Centre (NSMC). Items being procured: - Satellite communication service hardware on rental basis - Coverage for 11 stations: Chitral, Skardu, Gilgit, Pattan, Cherat, Tarbela, Peshawar, Lahore, Jhelum, Islamabad, Central Station - Data rate per station: 40 kbps including overheads The technical scope includes providing dedicated satellite communication terminals, installation, configuration, and integration with PMD/NSMC infrastructure. The service provider will conduct site surveys, install hardware, configure network routing and IP addressing, and ensure 24/7 monitoring and fault reporting with a restoration mechanism. The contract requires guaranteed link availability, low latency, and secure connectivity. The implementation timeline is stipulated with penalties for delays beyond 120 days. Eligibility criteria require bidders to be reputable IT firms or service providers registered with relevant government agencies, active taxpayers, and experienced in satellite communication networks for remote or mission-critical sites. A bid security of Rs 500,000 in the form of CDR, bank draft, or pay order in favor of Director General PMD is mandatory. Performance guarantee of 10% of the work order value will be required from the successful bidder. Bids must be submitted online through PPRA EPADS 2.0 and hard copies delivered to the I&P Section, PMD Headquarters, Islamabad by 29th September 2026 at 10:30 AM PST. The technical and financial bids will be opened on the same day at 11:00 AM PST in the presence of bidders or their representatives. A practical tip for bidders: Ensure all technical documentation and proof of relevant experience are complete and submitted as per the detailed bidding documents available on https://weather.gov.pk and PPRA portals. Timely submission of bid security and compliance with the single stage two envelope procedure will be critical for bid acceptance.