In the remote areas of Pithoragarh district, connectivity services have long been a dream, but soon, this dream is going to be a reality. The work to facilitate the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage, initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi last October, is progressing smoothly.
End of Shopless Mobiles for Kailash Mansarovar Pilgrims
Mobile phones of pilgrims heading towards Kailash Mansarovar won’t be silent anymore. Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) is gearing up to install mobile towers even in extremely remote areas. Soon, 4G towers will be erected in the border areas with China and in the high Himalayan regions.
Connecting Remote Areas: Turning Dreams into Reality
Connectivity services still seem like a dream in the remote areas of Pithoragarh district, but efforts are underway to make this dream a reality. After Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage last October, endeavors are being made to provide all facilities to the people here.
Mobile Connectivity Initiative Under PM’s 4G Securitization Project
BSNL is planning to install mobile towers under the Prime Minister’s 4G Securitization Project around military checkpoints near the China border and in high Himalayan regions.
Tower Installation along the Kailash Mansarovar Route
BSNL will install 2G towers at Kalapani (3600 meters), Nabhidhang (4266 meters), Gunji (3220 meters), and Jolingkong (4572 meters) along the Kailash Mansarovar route. Preparation for this initiative has already begun.
First Network Providing Connectivity to Kailash Mansarovar Route
This will be the first network providing connectivity to the China border and high Himalayan regions along the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage route. This will enable people to communicate with their relatives even during the several days of the Kailash Mansarovar journey.
Increasing Users for BSNL
Talking about the four mountainous districts, there are already 140,000 BSNL consumers. By February 1, 2024, there are 94,000 2G, 43,000 3G, and 2500 4G users in Almora, Bageshwar, Pithoragarh, and Champawat. BSNL is preparing to upgrade the network in many areas soon.
Benefiting Locals
There are several parts of the border district Pithoragarh where mobile network services have not been operational till now. But now, people living in these areas will also be able to use mobile phones. This service will be a relief, especially for ITBP and SSB soldiers. Additionally, migrants from Jolingkong, Nabhidhang, Gunji, and Kalapani will also benefit from this.
Benefits Beyond Locals
BSNL’s plan to install four mobile towers in areas adjacent to the China border and high Himalayan regions will not only benefit locals but will also aid semi-military forces’ soldiers and Kailash Mansarovar pilgrims.