Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, on December 31 reviewed the progress of the flagship 4G Saturation Project being implemented by BSNL across the Union Territory.

Emphasising the critical importance of uninterrupted network and internet connectivity in the modern digital era, the Lt Governor underscored the relevance of the Digital India initiative led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He noted that the success of various online portals launched by the UT Administration to improve governance and public service delivery depends largely on effective connectivity, particularly in Ladakh’s remote and far-flung areas.

Administrative Secretary, IT Department, Shashanka Ala, presented a detailed overview of the project, which is being funded through the Digital Bharat Nidhi (formerly the Universal Service Obligation Fund) and utilises indigenous Atmanirbhar Bharat 4G technology. She informed that 375 4G towers have been sanctioned across Ladakh to ensure uninterrupted telecom services for residents in remote areas, including Army and ITBP personnel. Under Beyond Category-III (new site additions), 154 sites were proposed by the Deputy Commissioners based on demands from Hill Councils, of which BSNL has cleared 89 sites as eligible.

Addressing the meeting, the Lt Governor referred to repeated network-related complaints raised by public delegations during his field visits, terming the issue serious and requiring immediate resolution. He stated that poor connectivity had rendered several online governance portals ineffective, particularly in remote regions, thereby depriving people of essential services.

The Lt Governor pointed out that despite the UT Administration extending full support—including transportation of equipment to remote locations and administrative facilitation—BSNL was behind schedule. He urged BSNL officials to show greater urgency to ensure timely completion of the project.

Directing the Power Development Department (PDD) to ensure uninterrupted power supply to telecom towers, especially during winter months, Kavinder Gupta instructed BSNL to conduct joint inspections of existing and new sites in coordination with both Deputy Commissioners. He also directed BSNL to expedite the distribution of 4G SIM cards to replace existing 2G connections in villages.

Expressing concern over delays and operational challenges, the Lt Governor called upon all stakeholders to work with renewed urgency to ensure uninterrupted connectivity in Ladakh’s remote areas. He reaffirmed the UT Administration’s commitment to extend all possible assistance for the successful completion of the project.

Chief Secretary Dr Pawan Kotwal also reiterated the Administration’s support for the 4G Saturation Project, stressing coordinated efforts among BSNL, local authorities, and other stakeholders to ensure seamless connectivity for residents, including those in remote and strategically sensitive regions.
BSNL officials, in turn, apprised the meeting of various operational challenges being faced during the implementation of the project in Ladakh.

The meeting was attended by Administrative Secretary Shashanka Ala, Deputy Commissioner Leh Romil Singh Donk, Deputy Commissioner Kargil Rakesh Kumar, General Manager BSNL Leh Phuntsog Dorjey, Chief Engineer PDD Ladakh, officials from the Army, ITBP, BSNL, and other senior government officers.