Bridging the Connectivity Gap: Meghalaya Struggles with Inadequate Network Coverage

Mobile network coverage in Meghalaya encompasses 86 percent of its 7,155 villages, with 5,916 villages benefiting from broadband access

Despite significant technological advancements, many regions in landlocked Meghalaya still face inadequate telephone and mobile network coverage. As of December 31, 2023, the state's overall tele-density stands at 77.96 percent, with rural areas lagging at 61.55 percent compared to a robust 140.93 percent in urban zones. In contrast, the tele-density for the entire North East region is slightly higher at 80.16 percent. Tele-density highlights the difference in connection between urban and rural areas by counting the number of phone connections per 100 people.

Mobile network coverage in Meghalaya encompasses 86 percent of its 7,155 villages, with 5,916 villages benefiting from broadband access. Additionally, 41.59 percent of the state’s Base Transceiver Stations (BTS), totaling 3,133 BTS, have been fiberized. In terms of data consumption, Meghalaya recorded a total usage of 39,130 TB in the 2022-23 fiscal year.

The challenges of poor mobile network and data services, particularly in parts of Shillong, are attributed to low tower coverage and numerous blind spots, exacerbated by the state’s hilly terrain. Mobile companies in Shillong often cite the reluctance of residents to provide land for tower installations as a significant hurdle.

To address these issues, the government and telecom providers like BSNL, Airtel, and Jio are engaging in awareness programs and demand-based interventions. Encouragingly, more residents are now cooperating, with Dorbar Shnongs and local Headmen issuing No Objection Certificates (NOCs) and offering space for mobile tower construction. These initiatives aim to bridge the connectivity gap and enhance mobile services across the state.