State-run telecom operator BSNL would expand its network in naxalite-affected areas of Bihar and update facilities in the region bordering Nepal, Union Minister of State for Communications Sachin Pilot said today. "We will lay thrust on expanding our network in the naxal-hit areas of Bihar, besides updating communication facilities in the areas bordering Nepal," Pilot told reporters here.
He said BSNL would install 2000 mobile phone towers in the state in the next two years. "BSNL is firm in its resolve to increase and expand its connectivity and for the purpose, it will set up the mobile towers in Bihar," he said, adding that it had set a target of adding eight lakh new customers for various BSNL services within a year.
After reviewing the works undertaken by BSNL in the state, Pilot said he wanted to make the services more effective and customer-friendly. "Our goal is to ensure that our services reach people living in far-flung areas," he said.
Pilot informed that 130 mobile towers have been proposed to be set up in naxal-hit districts of Sitamarhi, East Champaran, West Champaran, Madhubani, Kishanganj and Araria connected to the Indo-Nepal broder.
Besides, 106 mobile towers would be operational in the naxal-hold districts of Aurangabad, Gaya, Jehanabad, Rohtas and Jamui soon, he said. "Efforts are on to rectify the problems related to BSNL services in these districts," he said.
BSNL would soon start worldwide inter operability for microwave excess and internet protocol TV services in the state capital in the next three months, he said.
Stating that out of 55,000 existing post offices in Bihar, 10,000 were functional in Bihar, Pilot said Rs 17 crore had been allocated for enhancing the salary of the postmen in the state in accordance with the recommendations of the Natrajan Murthy Committee.
"We have also decided to give cycle allowance to postmen, besides maternity leave for female postal staff," he said. "We have also planned to provide broadband connectivity for ensuring e-governance in 2.5 lakh panchayats in India," Pilot pointed out.
