STATE TIMES NEWS
LEH: The Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, on Tuesday emphasised the critical importance of uninterrupted network and internet connectivity in today’s digital era, in line with the Digital India vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He stated that the success of various online portals launched by the UT Administration to improve governance accessibility largely depends on reliable connectivity, especially in Ladakh’s remote and far-flung areas.
The Lt Governor made these remarks while chairing a high-level meeting at the Lieutenant Governor’s Secretariat to review the progress of the flagship 4G Saturation Project being implemented by BSNL across the Union Territory. He noted that poor connectivity had repeatedly been raised as a major concern during his field visits and termed it a serious issue that requires immediate resolution.
During the meeting, Administrative Secretary, IT Department, Shashanka Ala, presented a comprehensive overview of the project, which is funded under Digital Bharat Nidhi (formerly USOF) and utilises indigenous Atmanirbhar Bharat 4G technology.
She informed that 375 4G towers have been sanctioned across Ladakh to provide uninterrupted telecommunication services in remote regions, including areas inhabited by Army and ITBP personnel. Of the 154 new sites proposed under Beyond Category-3 by Deputy Commissioners on the demand of Hill Councils, BSNL has cleared only 89 as eligible.
Expressing concern over delays, Kavinder Gupta said that despite full administrative support from the UT Administration-including facilitation and transportation of equipment to difficult terrains-BSNL remained behind schedule. He urged BSNL to show greater urgency and commitment towards timely completion of the project.
The Lt Governor directed the Power Development Department to ensure uninterrupted power supply to telecom towers, particularly during winter months. He also instructed BSNL to conduct joint inspections with Deputy Commissioners for both existing and new sites and to expedite the replacement of 2G SIMs with 4G SIMs in villages.
Chief Secretary Dr. Pawan Kotwal reaffirmed the Administration’s commitment to coordinated efforts with BSNL and local authorities to ensure seamless connectivity, including in strategically sensitive areas. BSNL officials highlighted operational challenges faced during implementation. The meeting was attended by Deputy Commissioners of Leh and Kargil, senior BSNL officials, representatives of the Army, ITBP, PDD and other senior officers.
