Leh, Dec 31: Emphasising the importance of seamless network and internet services, Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Shri Kavinder Gupta, on Tuesday called for ensuring uninterrupted connectivity in Ladakh’s remote and far-flung areas, stating that effective digital access is vital for good governance and public service delivery.
The Lt Governor made these remarks while chairing a high-level meeting at the Lieutenant Governor’s Secretariat to review the implementation of the 4G Saturation Project being executed by BSNL under the Digital India initiative.
Administrative Secretary, IT Department, Shashanka Ala, informed that the project is funded through Digital Bharat Nidhi and is based on indigenous Atmanirbhar Bharat 4G technology. She said 375 4G towers have been sanctioned across Ladakh to provide uninterrupted connectivity to residents, including Army and ITBP personnel. Of the 154 new sites proposed by Deputy Commissioners beyond Category-3, BSNL has cleared 89 sites as eligible.
The Lt Governor expressed serious concern over frequent network complaints raised during his field visits, stating that poor connectivity was rendering several online portals launched by the UT Administration ineffective, especially in remote areas. He noted that despite full administrative and logistical support—including transportation of equipment—BSNL was lagging behind schedule and urged the agency to expedite the project.
Directing the Power Development Department (PDD) to ensure uninterrupted power supply to telecom towers, particularly during winter, the Lt Governor instructed BSNL to conduct joint inspections with Deputy Commissioners for both existing and proposed sites and to replace 2G SIMs with 4G SIMs in villages.
Expressing anguish over delays and operational challenges, Shri Kavinder Gupta reiterated that the UT Administration is ready to extend all possible assistance to ensure the successful and timely completion of the 4G Saturation Project.
Chief Secretary Dr. Pawan Kotwal also stressed coordinated efforts among BSNL, UT Administration and local authorities to ensure seamless connectivity, including in strategically sensitive areas. BSNL officials, meanwhile, highlighted operational challenges faced during project execution.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Commissioners Romil Singh Donk (Leh) and Rakesh Kumar (Kargil), GM BSNL Leh Phuntsog Dorjey, Chief Engineer PDD Ladakh, officials from the Army, ITBP, BSNL and other senior officers.
