Kathmandu— Nepal Telecom has expanded its 4G service to the Badimalika area of Bajura district, a significant religious and tourism site in Nepal, bringing mobile and internet services to the region starting today. The expansion benefits local residents, pilgrims, tourists, and various organizations previously lacking reliable communication access. Information and Communications Minister Dr. Bikram Timilsina inaugurated the service virtually, emphasizing the government’s commitment to ensuring basic communication rights for all citizens, regardless of location.

Expanding Connectivity to Remote Areas

The extension of 4G service to Badimalika follows a directive from Communications Minister Dr. Timilsina on July 24th instructing Nepal Telecom to prioritize establishing telephone services in the area despite logistical challenges. The remote and high-altitude location necessitated the use of a Nepali Army helicopter to transport construction materials, with the tower ultimately fixed at Lauri Binayak, an altitude of approximately 4,230 meters. According to Madhav Budhathoki, assistant technical officer for Nepal Telecom, while Badimalika has limited permanent settlements, its importance as a religious site and trekking destination made communication access crucial.

Government Focus on Digital Transformation

Minister Timilsina stated that the current fiscal year will be dedicated to unprecedented improvement and digital transformation within Nepal’s telecommunications sector. He highlighted the government's commitment to ensuring no citizen is excluded from communication services due to geographical remoteness, prioritizing efforts to expand quality telephone and internet access to remote areas and tourist destinations. Sangita Pahadi, Managing Director of Nepal Telecom, echoed this sentiment, stating that providing communication facilities in these regions is a priority for the company, even beyond commercial considerations.

Infrastructure Development Underway

Nepal Telecom is actively working on expanding its infrastructure nationwide, with plans to construct around 1,600 new mobile towers and related sites. This initiative aims to enhance both access and quality of telecommunication services across the country. Services have already been extended to Lhan in Tripurasundari Municipality-6 and Dunai in Thulobheri Municipality-1 within Dolpa district, with ongoing studies to expand 4G coverage along the Sagarmatha base camp route.

Nepal Telecom continues to prioritize expanding communication access to underserved regions, aiming to improve service quality and bring digital connectivity to citizens throughout the country.

(With inputs from RN)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.