Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 18 February 2025
Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray, Member of Parliament from Andaman & Nicobar Islands, has raised serious concerns over the persistent network failures and poor connectivity issues faced by residents of North & Middle Andaman and other rural areas, despite the installation of BSNL towers.
During his recent visit to North & Middle Andaman, several residents approached the MP, highlighting the severe challenges caused by unreliable BSNL network services. Even in Diglipur, a key town in the region, proper network coverage remains unavailable. The MP personally experienced these connectivity issues while using his BSNL mobile number and stressed that such deficiencies significantly impact residents’ access to essential digital services.
“With the implementation of Digital India, seamless network connectivity is no longer a luxury but a necessity. The inefficiency of BSNL’s Andaman & Nicobar Telecom Circle in ensuring uninterrupted service is causing immense hardship for the public, especially in rural and remote areas,” the MP stated.
Despite the government’s ongoing efforts to enhance digital connectivity, BSNL has failed to meet the expected service standards in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. The MP pointed out that these shortcomings reflect serious lapses in supervision and a negligent approach by BSNL authorities.
In response to these concerns, the MP has urged the Chief General Manager of BSNL’s Andaman & Nicobar Telecom Circle to conduct an immediate review of network coverage in all uncovered and poorly connected areas. He has also called for urgent corrective measures and directed that Divisional and Sub-Divisional Officers of BSNL posted in rural areas of North & Middle Andaman, as well as the Nicobar and South Andaman districts, take immediate action to resolve the connectivity issues.
Residents have long demanded improved telecom infrastructure in the region, and the MP’s intervention is expected to put pressure on BSNL to enhance its services in the islands.