Nepal Telecom has launched telephone services in Ranishain, located in the Saipal Himal region. As part of its ongoing initiative to extend services to remote areas across the country, the company began operating telephone services in this area, situated at the borders of Humla, Bajura, and Bajhang districts, on June 23, 2024.
In a press release, Nepal Telecom announced that it has deployed VSAT technology to provide these services in Ranishain, located in Ward 3 of Namkha Rural Municipality in Humla.
Resident Sonam Lama explained the challenging journey to Ranishain. From the district headquarters in Martadi, Bajura, it takes one day by vehicle followed by approximately four days on foot. From Simikot, the headquarters of Humla, it involves a three to four-hour drive and an additional day of walking. Previously, residents had to travel to Lampata, 20 kilometers away, or to Sake at an altitude of 5,500 meters to access mobile services. With the new service, about 600 residents can now easily communicate with their relatives via telephone.
Namkha and Ranishain, nestled in the lap of Saipal Himal, are primarily grazing areas with no permanent residents during the more than six months of snowfall each year. Situated at an altitude of around 3,600 meters, the establishment of this service benefits residents of both Humla and Bajura.
To set up the VSAT service, necessary equipment was carried by locals from Tajakot, Humla, over four days. This expansion aligns with the government’s policy to extend telecommunications services to rural and remote areas.
Continuing its efforts to provide equitable telecom services even in low-revenue and high-investment areas, Nepal Telecom has announced plans to launch VSAT-based services in other remote locations, including Tinkar in Darchula, Gosainkunda in Rasuwa, and Kimathangka in Sankhuwasabha, within the current fiscal year.
