06/09/2025
By the Editor |
Airtel’s Network Challenges in Tawang: A Demand for Accountability
MON TAWANG VIGILANCE
In the picturesque district of Tawang, where connectivity transcends mere convenience to become a vital necessity, the recent decline in Airtel’s network services has generated considerable apprehension among the residents.
Although other service providers such as Jio, Vodafone, and BSNL are operational in the area, a substantial segment of the population continues to rely on Airtel—primarily due to its aggressive marketing of 5G services. Regrettably, this assurance has largely proven to be illusory for most inhabitants.
The 5G Illusion
Airtel's promotional efforts have successfully incentivized customers to upgrade to 5G SIM cards and devices, promising enhanced connectivity. However, beyond the district headquarters and select areas, 5G service remains virtually inaccessible. Even in regions where it is technically available, the speed remains sluggish and unreliable, resulting in users experiencing 4G performance on 5G-enabled devices. This disparity not only challenges Airtel’s credibility but also prompts serious inquiries regarding its commitment to service delivery in remote areas such as Tawang.
Unmet Commitments and Inactive Representatives
In recent months, numerous meetings have taken place between local authorities and telecommunications representatives to address the escalating network issues. Unfortunately, these discussions have led to little more than unfulfilled promises. A particularly concerning incident transpired when a delegation of Airtel officials was expected to meet with the Tawang Deputy Commissioner. Team Mon Tawang Vigilance, prepared to represent the public's grievances, reached out to the Airtel district in-charge for pertinent details, yet received no response. This lack of communication not only reflects inadequate engagement but also indicates a troubling avoidance of accountability.
Non-Functional Infrastructure and Lack of Commitment
Although Airtel has erected several towers in the region, many remain inoperative. The tower located in Changbu village, for instance, serves as a visible yet ineffective structure. Additionally, during power outages, network services fail within minutes, suggesting that diesel generators are either poorly maintained or inadequately fueled, likely to minimize operational costs at the expense of customer satisfaction.
Implications for Daily Life: Students, Businesses, Tourists, and Patients
The ramifications of inconsistent network services are extensive:
- Students encounter difficulties in attending online classes and accessing educational materials.
- Businesses experience interruptions in digital transactions and communication.
- Tourists, particularly during peak seasons, are without navigation or emergency contact capabilities.
- Patients and healthcare professionals are hindered in coordinating timely care, especially during emergencies.
In a region where digital connectivity mitigates geographical isolation, such failures are not merely inconvenient; they are detrimental.
A Call to Action
Team Mon Tawang Vigilance plans to submit a formal petition to the Tawang District Commissioner, advocating for immediate intervention concerning the declining standards of Airtel’s network services. We also urge the District Administration, non-governmental organizations, student bodies, and market committees to unite in this cause. The time for passive acquiescence has elapsed.
A Message to Airtel and Other Service Providers
As the tourist season approaches, all telecommunications operators need to enhance their infrastructure and restore dependable services. The public's patience is diminishing, and historical precedents indicate that unresolved grievances can culminate in large-scale demonstrations and protests.
This serves as a critical reminder: “A stitch in time saves nine.”
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