Sachin Pilot launches mobile services at Holy Amarnath cave
By ANIThursday, July 8, 2010
JAMMU - Union Minister of State for Communication and Information Technology (IT) Sachin Pilot launched BSNL’s mobile services at Holy Amarnath cave on Thursday.
Pilot reportedly made the first call to Jammu and Kashmir Governor N.N. Vohra from the Holy cave.
“The Department of Telecom would continue to improve infrastructure and services in Jammu and Kashmir,” said Pilot and congratulated BSNL for challenging task of providing connectivity to the shrine at a height of 13,500 ft.
“Over four lakh pilgrims who visit the shrine every year, especially the old and the infirm may stay connected to their families while undertaking the Yatra. Connectivity would also benefit local inhabitants, administration, and security forces and people visiting the area,” he added
He expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister, the State Administration and Shri Amarnath Shrine Board for their support and efforts.
Eleven towers have been put up at Baltal-I, Baltal-II, Baltal Base Camp, Noonwan, Lakipora, Betab Valley, Domail, Sangam/Holi Cave, Panchtarni, Chandanwari and Chandanwari Base Camp - of which some are on motorable road and some are on pony track.
At present, BSNL has 8.72 lakh mobile connections in Jammu and Kashmir and has 1299 mobile towers through which it is offering mobile services in the State.
BSNL provides connectivity to 95.22 percent of National Highways passing through Jammu and Kashmir, 73.32 percent of the State Highways and 100 percent railway routes.
284 more towers will be installed in the State in 2010-11 to ensure smooth and widespread coverage. Out of 6471 inhabited villages in the State, 5994 villages have already been provided with Village Public Telephones. (ANI)
