Koraput MP Seeks Time-Bound 4G Connectivity for Tribal Regions
Koraput | Feb 10, 2026 - Senior Congress leader and Koraput MP Saptagiri Sankar Ulaka has written to Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, demanding a time-bound and reliable rollout of 4G mobile services in the tribal and hilly regions of Koraput and Rayagada districts, which continue to remain digitally isolated despite repeated assurances.
In his letter, Ulaka pointed out that inadequate mobile connectivity is severely impacting access to emergency healthcare, education, banking services, livelihoods, and government welfare schemes in these remote areas. He noted that while several mobile towers have been commissioned under the Digital Bharat Network (DBN) and Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) schemes, connectivity on the ground remains unreliable.
“Many villages shown as ‘covered’ receive only voice services or unstable data connectivity, making digital services practically unusable,” the MP stated. Quoting official data, Ulaka said that in Koraput, 386 of the proposed 459 towers are operational, yet 89 villages out of 2,047 still lack mobile connectivity. In Rayagada, 546 of 700 planned towers are functional, leaving 149 villages out of 2,671 unconnected.
Ulaka urged the Ministry to provide a village-wise status report, detailing whether sites are under survey, execution, or commissioning, along with reasons for delays and revised timelines. He also sought information on implementing agencies, accountability for repeated delays, and enforcement of service-level obligations.
Stressing that connectivity “saturation” must translate into dependable 4G data, the MP called for quality benchmarks, an accessible grievance redressal system, and regular reviews until 100% mobile connectivity is achieved in these tribal districts.
Taking the issue public, Ulaka stated on X that despite years of promises, people in Koraput and Rayagada are still waiting for dependable mobile networks, and demanded clear timelines and accountability from the Centre.
