Coastal chars remain out of mobile network

CHAR FASSON, BHOLA, Aug 5: Poor mobile network coverage across several estuarine islands in Char Fasson Upazila is disrupting communication for thousands of fishermen, traders and residents, raising concerns over safety, business and emergency response during the peak hilsa fishing season.

Although Dhal Char, one of the country's major fish landing centres, has a single mobile phone tower, many surrounding islands remain outside network coverage. Every day, fishermen from different parts of the country land fish worth several crore taka at these islands, yet many are unable to communicate with their families or seek help in emergencies.

Local people said signal boosters, previously used to receive weak mobile signals, have also become ineffective in many areas due to deteriorating network coverage.

Dhal Char Union Secretary Nanu Patwari said around 70,000 fishermen operating in the Meghna estuary could face serious risks if mobile connectivity is not improved.

"Lack of communication could hamper rescue efforts during storms and tidal surges and increase the risk of piracy," he said.

The union also has a police investigation centre, four primary schools, a secondary school, a madrasa, around 45,000 acres of mangrove plantations, and the Dhal Char Range Office. Authorities rely heavily on mobile communication for emergency coordination.

He urged the installation of a mobile tower on Tarua Island, saying improved connectivity would support both economic activities and tourism. The previous government had declared Dhal Char an economic zone, he added.

Similar problems exist in Char Dighal, accessible by crossing the river from Char Kachhapia Ghat under South Aicha Police Station. The area, known for its natural beauty and biodiversity, has virtually no mobile network across a three-kilometre stretch inside its forest.

Locals believe the dense forest and tall trees prevent signals from nearby towers from reaching the area, leaving fishermen, launch passengers and visitors completely cut off.

Despite the communication problems, Char Dighal continues to attract nature lovers, who often spot deer swimming across canals inside the forest.

Residents said nearby islands, including Char Nizam, also have little or no mobile coverage, even though thousands of fishermen, livestock farmers and fish traders operate there throughout the fishing season.

They urged the authorities and mobile operators to expand network coverage to ensure public safety, support businesses and improve connectivity in the remote coastal region.