Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) is planning to install 2,199 towers in the naxal-affected areas. Out of these, 60 towers are likely to be set up in Vidarbha, Maharashtra. Within this region, 37 towers are likely to be set up in Gadchiroli, where the naxalite movement is predominant. These towers will be set up with the funding from Universal Services Obligation Fund (USOF).
BSNL is planning to complete the entire project by November 2015. Most of the towers are likely to be erected within the premises of security establishments, such as police stations. BSNL has stated that the tendering processes were being initiated in different states and the work was set to start soon. Apart from enhancing security in the region, the project aims at providing mobile connectivity to the local tribal population.
