For communities that have waited years for reliable connectivity, access to broadband can open new opportunities. Students can conduct online research without travelling long distances, farmers can access market prices in time to sell their produce at fair prices, and parents can transfer money to children studying in cities more conveniently. Small business owners can also reach online markets that were previously inaccessible.
HUTCH, in partnership with the Telecommunications Regulator y Commission of Sri Lanka (TRCSL), has deployed connectivity through newly commissioned sites, extending its Gamata Sanniwedanaya program to unserved rural communities across Sri Lanka. The latest expansion brings connectivity for the first time to Werellagama, Pelawa, Muruthalawa, Halloluwa and ten other areas in the Kandy district.
In Anuradhapura, newly connected locations include Kumaraeliya, Jayagama, Pahalagama and Thalawa, along with two other areas. A further 14 areas across Badulla, Kalutara, Kegalle and Trincomalee have also received connectivity. This phase of the HUTCH and TRCSL partnership has added nearly 300 square kilometers of new broadband coverage, reaching more than 10,000 people and helping communities gain greater access to digital opportunities.
Saumitra Gupta, Chief Executive Officer, HUTCH Sri Lanka, said that building towers in remote locations presents challenges involving terrain, logistics, access and power supply. He emphasized that bridging the digital divide remains an ongoing responsibility for HUTCH, supported by increased investment. Construction of additional tower infrastructure has already commenced in identified unserved communities, with more sites expected to become operational during the remainder of the year. HUTCH remains committed to expanding Gamata Sanniwedanaya and supporting Universal Connectivity as Sri Lanka works towards its ambition of building a USD 15 billion digital economy by 2030.
