(a) whether the BSNL propose to set up telephone exchange in every rural and semi-rural area having more than fifty subscribers;
(b) if so, the norms laid down in this regard; and
(c) the time by which such exchanges will be set up in all rural/semi-rural areas of the country?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY(SHRI ASHOK PRADHAN)
(a)&(b): Telephone exchanges are being planned by BSNL in rural areas as per present norms given below:-
(i) The planning of rural areas will be first by WLL (Wireless in Local Loop) solution.
(ii) If WLL solution is not workable due to technical reasons a new exchange will be planned with minimum registered demand of 75 within 2.5 Km (Radial) of the Exchange.
(c) Rural exchanges are planned on yearly basis as per the present norms mentioned. BSNL has also planned to cover all SDCA (Short Distance Charging Area) by installing one WLL BTS in each SDCA by 2004-05 subject to the availability of fund.