Diplomat Correspondent
Leh: DD, Chairman/Chief Executive Councillor, LAHDC Leh, Adv. Tashi Gyalson convened a review meeting to assess the ongoing implementation of BSNL’s 4G Saturation Project in Ladakh and to discuss broader issues related to digital connectivity in the region.
The project aims to ensure reliable 4G internet services in remote and underserved areas of Ladakh under a nationwide initiative.
The meeting was attended by Councillors Karma Namdak and Ishey Spalzang; Phuntsog Dorjey, Senior General Manager, BSNL Ladakh; Tsering Angchuk, AGM, BSNL; and Phuntsog Dorjey, SDE & 4G Nodal Officer, BSNL.
The officers briefed the CEC on the overall progress, including sanctioned tower sites, land allotments, civil works, and site-specific challenges. Deliberations were held on logistical hurdles and the need for stronger coordination among departments to speed up implementation.
The CEC reviewed the status of the amended BharatNet project and strictly instructed the officials to explore the option of overhead optical fibre cable for faster and more reliable execution.
He pointed out that the current approach of laying underground cables has encountered persistent challenges due to rocky terrain, insufficient trenching depth, and extreme weather conditions across various parts of Ladakh, resulting in considerable delays.
The CEC directed that overhead cabling using ADSS (All-Dielectric Self-Supporting) cables must be taken up with the implementing agency, as it is better suited to Ladakh’s topography and offers a more practical and sustainable solution.
The CEC also directed officials to identify a suitable site for the test installation of the BharatNet Wi-Fi Access Point on the existing GP VSAT terminal and evaluate its performance before rolling it out on a larger scale.
He further emphasised the need for close coordination with executing agencies to avoid further delays.
Reaffirming LAHDC Leh’s commitment to improving digital infrastructure, the CEC assured full support for the timely and efficient completion of both the 4G and BharatNet projects.DD
