Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair) April 6: Concerns over persistent internet disruptions in Shaheed Dweep have prompted a renewed push for direct optical fibre connectivity, with calls for immediate and long-term measures to stabilise network services in the region.
Member of Parliament Bishnu Pada Ray has written to the Chief General Manager of BSNL, urging urgent intervention to address inadequate and unreliable telecom connectivity on the island. The communication highlights the need for both interim upgrades and a permanent solution through the laying of direct Optical Fibre Cable (OFC) infrastructure.
The request follows continued complaints from residents and visitors regarding inconsistent network performance, including frequent disruptions and slow internet speeds. At present, telecom services in the island are understood to depend on indirect connectivity routed through other locations, including Shadipur, resulting in unstable service quality.
In his letter, Ray noted that while nearby areas such as Swaraj Dweep have been connected through optical fibre networks, similar infrastructure in Shaheed Dweep remains inadequate or incomplete across several parts of the island. This disparity has led to growing concerns about access to reliable digital services.
The issue has also been flagged as a matter affecting essential services, with poor connectivity impacting communication, access to information, and daily activities of residents. Authorities have been informed that the situation also affects tourism, with visitors facing difficulty due to limited internet access, thereby impacting the overall experience and potential of the destination.
Ray has stated that a proposal for laying direct OFC connectivity has already been taken up at the policy level, but approvals are likely to take time. In the interim, he has requested the telecom authorities to strengthen existing systems, upgrade equipment, and enhance current connectivity mechanisms to improve service delivery.
The communication has been marked as urgent, with a request for immediate action to mitigate ongoing hardships faced by stakeholders. It emphasises that improved network performance is critical for both local communities and the tourism sector.
Separately, the matter has also been raised with the Union government, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, seeking intervention to ensure the establishment of direct OFC connectivity to the island.
The demand underscores a broader issue of digital infrastructure gaps in remote island regions, where connectivity plays a crucial role in supporting economic activity, governance, and public services. Officials have indicated that resolving the issue would require coordinated action to ensure stable and high-speed internet access.
The proposal for direct optical fibre connectivity is being seen as a long-term solution to ensure reliable communication services in Shaheed Dweep, addressing both current deficiencies and future demand.
