The Union Cabinet today approved a proposal to install mobile towers at 2,199 locations in nine states that is Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal, which are affected by Left Wing Extremism (LWE), identified by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
The project would be executed by Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL). BSNL has already installed towers at 363 locations. Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) would fund the CAPEX and OPEX net of revenue for 5 years. Maximum outgo from the USO Fund is estimated to be Rs. 3,046.12 crore.
Installation and roll out in these areas is targeted to be completed in 12 months after amendment in the Indian Telegraph Rules and signing of agreement with BSNL, which will take about three months.
The strengthened telecom network will result in increase in penetration of mobile connectivity in the country, especially LWE affected areas and other areas facing security challenges, resulting in affordable and equitable access of communication, information and governance to people.