Srinagar, Dec 06 (KNO): As a major boost to digital connectivity in Kashmir, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) said on Friday that it has transitioned over 3,000 landline users from copper-based connections to Fibre-to-the-Home (FTTH) services this year, with more subscribers joining.
Speaking exclusively with the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), the General Manager (GM), BSNL in Srinagar, Arvind Pandey said the initiative is expected to be a game-changer in delivering high-speed internet and reliable voice services to the region.
He said the upgradation drive, launched earlier this year, is being offered to customers at no extra cost. “As part of the process, BSNL replaces outdated copper wiring with advanced optical fibre technology and installs Optical Network Terminals (ONTs) at customers premises,” Pandey said, adding that this ensures uninterrupted data and voice services while allowing users to retain their existing landline numbers.
The GM added, “Our mission is to provide hassle-free, high-speed connectivity to every corner of the valley. Fibre technology is a significant leap forward in overcoming the challenges posed by ageing copper wire infrastructure.
A senior executive of the telecom in Srinagar told KNO that BSNL FTTH plans start at just Rs 299 per month for urban subscribers and Rs 249 for rural users. “The plans offer speeds starting from 10 Mbps, along with a minimum of 10GB of high-speed data and unlimited local and STD calling benefits,” he said.
The step comes as copper wires have increasingly become unreliable due to wear and environmental factors. “Copper-based networks cannot handle today’s connectivity demands. Optical fibre, on the other hand, is not only durable but also ensures better service quality,” an official said.
He said the response to the initiative has been overwhelming, with 2,800 subscribers already opting for the upgrade. "The feedback from consumers has been extremely positive. They are experiencing seamless internet connectivity and better voice call quality,” he added.
Meanwhile, a BSNL spokesperson said its Srinagar office has been actively reaching out to landline subscribers to encourage them to avail of the free upgradation scheme. “Customers are urged to visit their nearest BSNL offices, including locations in Barzulla, Lal Chowk, Pulwama, Anantnag, Baramulla, Kupwara, Sopore and other areas to complete the transition,” he said.
BSNL is taking several steps to upgrade its services in Kashmir this year, the spokesperson said, adding that the existing landline subscribers can contact their respective sub-divisional engineers of BSNL in their areas.
For Barzulla: 01942441108, Lal Chowk: 01942450220, Soura: 01942401700, Gogjibagh: 01942310974, Pulwama: 01933240999, Anantnag: 01932222000, Baramulla: 01952234444, Kupwara: 01955252298, Sopore: 01954220197, Budgam: 01951255303, Ganderbal: 01942416298, and Bandipora: 01957226004,” said the spokesperson—(KNO)