Darjeeling MP Raju Bista highlights successful implementation of BSNL media network in Kalimpong

The people of Kalimpong District now have a stable and reliable BSNL media network, marking a major step in improving connectivity in the region. The new network was inaugurated at the 2025 Telecom Advisory Committee (TAC) meeting, addressing a long-standing problem that had affected thousands of users.

For years, Kalimpong's connectivity relied on an outdated optical fiber cable (OFC) network along NH-31A via Sikkim. This 144-kilometer stretch, with 70 km passing through Sikkim, was prone to frequent disruptions due to landslides and road damage. These issues caused repeated service breakdowns, affecting 1,277 Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH) customers—the highest in any district in West Bengal. Additionally, 48 lease circuits and over 54,000 mobile users, including government offices, banks, and private institutions relying on BSNL, faced regular interruptions. Another potential route via Lava-Gorubathan to Siliguri had been abandoned in 2012 due to road widening, leaving Kalimpong with unreliable connectivity.

Recognizing the urgency of the issue, Member of Parliament Raju Bista took up the matter in the last BSNL TAC meeting. He reviewed supporting documents and worked closely with the Telecom Ministry and BSNL leadership to find a lasting solution. After discussions with Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia and correspondence with the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and BSNL’s Chairman and Managing Director, a plan was approved to enhance connectivity.

On October 5, 2024, BSNL secured a 10G bandwidth lease from Power Grid Corporation of India Limited at an annual cost of Rs. 34 lakhs. The installation was completed by October 21, 2024, followed by a six-month trial period to ensure its reliability. Now, the upgraded network is fully operational, providing seamless connectivity for Kalimpong residents.

MP Raju Bista said that this development aligns with the vision of Digital India led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He expressed gratitude to Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, DoT, BSNL, and local stakeholders for their cooperation in bringing this much-needed improvement to Kalimpong.

"Our region has many challenges, from connectivity issues to other developmental gaps. I assure the people that each of these concerns will be addressed systematically. As your elected representative, I am committed to working towards the comprehensive development of our constituency and ensuring our rights as guaranteed by the Constitution," said Raju Bista.

With this new BSNL network in place, Kalimpong can expect uninterrupted connectivity, benefiting individuals, businesses, and institutions and bringing the district closer to the digital transformation envisioned for the nation.