- BSNL is overseeing the execution of this project, and in Gujarat, more than 70% of the work has been successfully completed
- Gujarat was the first state to pilot the CBuD app, and it now leads with the highest number of excavation enquiries to date
- The Department of Telecommunications has set up 5G labs at prominent institutions, including IIT Gandhinagar, NFSU Gandhinagar, and SVNIT Surat
NE BUSINESS BUREAU
GANDHINAGAR, FEB 20
In line with the vision of National Broadband Mission (NBM) to enable fast track growth of digital communication infrastructure across the country, Gujarat Licensed Service Area, Department of Telecommunications convened State Broadband Committee (SBC) meeting under the Chairmanship of Pankaj Joshi, Chief Secretary, Government of Gujarat at Gandhinagar on Monday.
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During the meeting, Ajatshatru Somani, Additional Director General of Telecom, Gujarat LSA highlighted about the telecom development of Gujarat and briefed the citizen centric initiatives taken by Department of telecommunications.
4G Saturation Project in Gujarat Nears Completion
The Department of Telecommunications is spearheading the 4G Saturation Project to ensure 4G mobile connectivity reaches rural and underserved regions. BSNL is overseeing the execution of this project, and in Gujarat, more than 70% of the work has been successfully completed. This initiative is expected to significantly boost mobile coverage, providing better connectivity and access to high-speed internet in areas that have long lacked reliable service.
Implementation of Telecommunications Right of Way Rules-2024
The Department of Telecommunications has notified the Telecommunications Right of Way (RoW) Rules-2024, which comes into effect on January 1, 2025. To ensure full compliance with the new regulations, Gujarat’s State RoW Portal has been updated and aligned with the RoW Rules-2024, enabling seamless implementation across the state.
Govt of Gujarat to accelerate 5G rollout with deployment of small cells on street furniture
To expedite the rollout of 5G technology across Gujarat, small cells will be deployed on existing street furniture, including poles, streetlights, traffic signals, bus stop shelters, advertisement hoardings, and billboards. These small cells, which are compact and lightweight, are ideal for quick and efficient installation.
The Government of Gujarat is working closely with stakeholders to upgrade current street infrastructure and design standardized, future-ready street furniture. This initiative ensures that upcoming street furniture is optimally designed to support the deployment of 5G small cells, facilitating a seamless transition to advanced connectivity.
By leveraging these existing structures, Gujarat is poised to accelerate its journey towards widespread 5G adoption, enhancing connectivity for citizens and businesses alike.
Gujarat Leads with “Call Before You Dig” (CBuD) App Usage
The “Call Before You Dig” (CBuD) mobile app, launched by Prime Minister Modi on March 22, 2023, aims to minimize damage to underground assets during excavation activities. The app is designed to encourage responsible digging practices and protect vital infrastructure.
Gujarat was the first state to pilot the CBuD app, and it now leads with the highest number of excavation enquiries to date. The Gujarat Government remains committed to promoting the widespread use of the CBuD app to ensure digging activities are conducted with minimal disruption to underground assets.
5G labs commissioned at leading institutions in Gujarat
The Department of Telecommunications has set up 5G labs at prominent institutions, including IIT Gandhinagar, NFSU Gandhinagar, and SVNIT Surat, all of which are now fully commissioned. These labs will function as centers of excellence, empowering students with hands-on experience in the latest 5G technologies while enhancing telecom training and skills development.
The meeting was attended by departmental heads from the Government of Gujarat, senior officers from the Department of Telecom, as well as representatives from BSNL, BBNL, DIPA, and COAI.