DODA, Oct 17: Residents of Machail Padar are facing severe communication problems due to the frequent disruption of Airtel mobile network services, with the local tower reportedly remaining completely non-functional for the past two weeks. Locals allege that the problem has persisted intermittently for nearly one-and-a-half years, causing considerable inconvenience to people who depend largely on Airtel SIM cards for mobile connectivity.
According to residents, although the Jio mobile tower in the area is functioning, a large number of people have Airtel connections and are being deprived of reliable communication services. They expressed resentment over the alleged lack of attention from both the concerned telecom company and the district administration towards resolving the long-standing issue.
Residents said that whenever the Airtel tower is repaired after repeated complaints, the service resumes only for a few days before breaking down again, leaving the area without dependable connectivity for extended periods. They alleged that no permanent solution has been put in place despite the recurring problem.
The residents also pointed out that road connectivity has now improved considerably in the area. According to them, the road has reached Darshan Gate, around one kilometre from the village and some distance from the temple, making access easier than before, when people had to travel on foot. They said the improved road connectivity should facilitate the installation and maintenance of essential infrastructure at the tower site.
Locals further highlighted that the region experiences heavy rainfall and snowfall during adverse weather conditions, making a reliable power backup system particularly important for uninterrupted telecom services. They pointed out that the Jio tower has been equipped with a generator and solar power facilities, while the Airtel tower lacks a similar backup arrangement, according to their account.
Residents demanded that Airtel authorities take immediate steps to restore the tower permanently and install a solar power system or generator to ensure uninterrupted services, particularly during harsh weather conditions.
They also appealed to the District Magistrate to intervene in the matter and direct the concerned authorities to address the issue at the earliest.
Local residents, including Raju Sharma, Bal krishan and Pahad Singh, said that reliable mobile connectivity has become an essential service and that the repeated disruption is causing serious inconvenience to the people of Machail Padar . They urged Airtel authorities to take the matter seriously and provide a lasting solution rather than carrying out temporary repairs.