Airtel today announced that it has launched it has become the first operator to launch 4G in Kargil, Dras and Leh in the Ladakh region covering 130 towns and villages. This is a part of Project Leap – Airtel’s network transformation initiative. Airtel said that its network teams and partners have overcome the challenge of extremely difficult terrain and harsh weather conditions, including sub-zero temperatures, to deploy a state-of-the-art 4G network in the region.
Airtel 4G covers Kargil War Memorial, Sangam, Magnetic Hill, Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace, Thiksey Monastery, Alchi Monastery, Lamayuru Monastery, Moon Land Lamayuru, Sakti towards pangong Lake, Stok Palace and Hall of Fame.
Last week Airtel signed an agreement with the Department of Telecom (DoT) and the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) for provision of mobile services in identified uncovered villages and national highways in the North Eastern States of Assam, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, Tripura and Arunachal Pradesh. Airtel said that it will set up over 2000 mobile towers/sites in unconnected pockets of the region and deliver telecom connectivity to citizens in over 2100 villages over the next 18 months.
Commenting on the launch, Ajai Puri, Chief Operating Officer (India & South Asia), Bharti Airtel said:
This is a major milestone for India and for Airtel. Having pioneered 4G rollout in India, Airtel has been committed to expanding its high speed data networks to every corner of the country and contribute to the Government’s Digital India vision. As part of Project Leap, we will continue to channel investments towards building a world class future ready network that touches every Indian.