BSNL to expand network in Bihar's naxal-affected areas

PATNA: State-run telecom operator BSNL would expand its network in naxalite-affected areas of Bihar and update facilities in the region bordering Nepal, Union Minister of State for Communications Sachin Pilot said on Saturday.

"We will lay thrust on expanding our network in the naxal-hit areas of Bihar, besides updating communication facilities in the areas bordering Nepal," Pilot told reporters here.

He said BSNL would install 2000 mobile phone towers in the state in the next two years.

"BSNL is firm in its resolve to increase and expand its connectivity and for the purpose, it will set up the mobile towers in Bihar," he said, adding that it had set a target of adding eight lakh new customers for various BSNL services within a year.

After reviewing the works undertaken by BSNL in the state, Pilot said he wanted to make the services more effective and customer-friendly.

"Our goal is to ensure that our services reach people living in far-flung areas," he said.