BTRC Chairman outlines 2G phaseout plan and quality telecom expansion
Quality Network Essential to Bridge Digital Divide
- BTRC Chairman highlights the necessity of quality internet to prevent digital divides at Robi's network modernization event.
- Outlines 2G network shutdown considerations by 2029, 5G tower density, and awareness on data validity pricing.
- Focuses on expanding EMI options for mobile handsets and integrating AI into telecom asset optimization.
While telecommunication connectivity plays a vital role in inclusive development, the lack of quality internet will cause disadvantaged communities to lag further behind, worsening the digital divide, warned Major General (Retd.) Md. Emdad Ul Bari, Chairman of the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC).
He expressed these views as the chief guest at an event titled "Network Modernization of Dhaka," held at Robi's Corporate Office in Tejgaon, Dhaka, on Wednesday (August 19).
The BTRC Chairman congratulated Robi's technical team for modernizing nearly 5,000 sites in just three months, describing the achievement as reassuring for the regulator. He noted that while the digital divide previously meant a lack of connection, it now revolves around access to quality internet. Appreciating Robi's healthy balance of voice and data revenue, he urged the operator to expand these modernized services beyond Dhaka across the entire country.
Addressing customer awareness, he stated that network improvements might not be felt instantly by users, requiring active communication from both regulators and operators. He stressed increasing tower density for 5G expansion and dispelling radiation myths among the public. Regarding public queries on unused data expiration, he explained, "Enforcing unlimited validity on all data plans would drive up prices, making them unaffordable for ordinary citizens. Operators must help educate consumers on this reality."
On policy roadmaps, the BTRC Chairman shared that the government is considering phasing out 2G services by 2029. However, implementation remains challenging as nearly half the population still uses feature phones. To accelerate handset adoption, the government is facilitating EMI purchase schemes alongside financial institutions. He also emphasized integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) for demand forecasting and telecom resource optimization.
The event was attended by Minister for Posts, Telecommunications & Information Technology Fakir Mahbub Anam, Prime Minister's ICT Advisor Rehan Asif Asad, Robi Managing Director and CEO Ziad Shatara, alongside senior corporate officials.
//DBTech/NAP/MIS//
