New Delhi: Union Minister of Communications Jyotiraditya Scindia said a committee comprising government officials will be set up to evaluate the assets of public sector telecom companies Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Limited (MTNL) and Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) in Mumbai.
The committee, which will include representatives from the state urban development department, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), and the central government’s telecommunications department, is expected to submit its report within four weeks.
The decision was taken during a high-level meeting held at the Sahyadri Guest House in Mumbai, where discussions centered on BSNL’s assets in the city and the broader communication infrastructure in Maharashtra.
Attendees included Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, Chief Secretary Sujata Saunik, Union Telecom Secretary Neeraj Mittal, BSNL Managing Director Robert Ravi and other senior officials.
Scindia highlighted the importance of the BharatNet project, aimed at expanding broadband connectivity to gram panchayats nationwide. He acknowledged Maharashtra’s successful implementation of the project’s first phase and emphasized the need to extend its reach under phase II.
As part of this expansion, one lakh 4G towers are slated to be installed across the country, with a focus on connecting remote and unserved areas.
Fadnavis assured full cooperation from the state government to enhance connectivity in difficult terrains, including Naxal-affected regions like Gadchiroli.
Security measures will be put in place to facilitate the installation of mobile towers in such areas. He also reaffirmed Maharashtra’s commitment to leading the BharatNet Phase II initiative, ensuring connectivity across all gram panchayats.
Regarding BSNL and MTNL’s properties in Mumbai, Fadnavis stated that reservations on these assets will be reviewed, and any necessary actions will be taken in accordance with regulations. He indicated that the state intends to utilize these properties to develop various public amenities.
The final course of action will be determined based on the recommendations of the newly formed committee.
Deputy CM Shinde underscored the potential impact of an improved communication network in remote regions, stating that strengthening connectivity in Gadchiroli could aid in the eradication of Naxalism.
He emphasized that establishing a reliable telecommunications infrastructure would not only enhance security but also provide local youth with greater access to modern technology and opportunities.
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