Government identifying locations for 573 new communication towers

The Government is identifying locations for 573 new communication towers to expand internet connectivity across the country, Cabinet Spokesman and Minister of Health and Mass Media Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa said today (22).

Speaking at the Cabinet decisions media briefing, the Minister said construction of each tower is estimated to cost around Rs. 35 million, with a further Rs. 5 million for electricity supply. Rs. 9 billion has currently been allocated for the programme.

The Government also plans to add more towers next year and implement a 1,000-tower project over the next three years. Dr. Jayatissa said the required approvals from several institutions are being obtained and steps are being taken to expedite the process. He added that additional towers will also be required as the country moves towards 5G technology.