Mangaluru: The fishing industry is driving growing demand for satellite phones in the coastal region, with the Mangaluru division of BSNL having received more than 20 requests so far and anticipating another 100 connections, mainly from fishing companies and boat owners.
Hemant Sadashiv Borale, general manager, BSNL Mangaluru division, said the division has received more than 20 customer acquisition forms for satellite phones. Borale said the division anticipates demand for around 50 additional connections from Udupi, and another 50 from Mangaluru. Fisheries minister to inspect Mangaluru fishing harbour on Aug 31
He said many fishing companies operate several boats that venture into the sea at different times. “Fishing companies represent a significant potential customer base,” Borale said, noting that there are many small fishing companies and boat owners in the region. Jetty operators and maritime industries are also prospective customers, he said. Borale said BSNL’s enterprise segment has approached the fisheries department to ascertain whether it requires satellite phones for personnel operating at sea. HPCL has already indicated a requirement for one or two satellite phones, he said, adding that MRPL, ferry operators and companies providing services to different islands in the region like St Marys Island, could also emerge as potential customers.
The applications are currently under verification, after which the customers will make the required payment. The requests will then be forwarded to the central supplier in Ghaziabad for approval and supply. A satellite phone carried on a vessel can provide emergency communication when boats are away from the coast, and help coordinate communication between vessels. The department is exploring other potential users as well.