Leh, Oct 27: In a major digital breakthrough for India’s border connectivity, the remote villages of Merak and Khakted in Eastern Ladakh have been brought under mobile network coverage for the first time, with Airtel India activating its 5G service in the region on Monday. The network now extends up to Finger 4 on the north bank of Pangong Lake, a strategically significant area along the Line of Actual Control.
Confirming the development, Chushul Councillor Konchok Stanzin described the initiative as a landmark achievement for communication access in border villages that have long remained unconnected. He stated that the activation followed continuous engagement with Airtel authorities to bring high-speed network services to the region.
“This is a dream realized for residents who had no reliable communication network,” Stanzin said, adding that the coverage will enhance connectivity not only for civilians but also for emergency and strategic requirements in the Pangong sector.
The councillor expressed gratitude to senior Airtel officials, including the Managing Director, Chief Financial Officer, and Director & CEO of Airtel Business, as well as the Nodal Officer for J&K and the company’s Ladakh team, for their coordinated efforts in realizing the project. He also acknowledged the Fire and Fury Corps of the Indian Army for facilitating infrastructure requirements at Thakung.
With Airtel’s expansion, the entire Pangong belt now comes under mobile network coverage, marking a decisive step toward bridging the digital divide in India’s frontier regions and strengthening communication resilience in sensitive border areas.
