PONT BONDIEU & SALAZIE REGION – MOBILE NETWORK PROBLEM (3.06 p.m.) The Minister of Information Technology, Communication and Innovation (Dr. A. Ramtohul): Madam Speaker, with your permission, I would like to make a Statement to the House in regard to the issue raised at the Sitting of Tuesday 04 February 2025 by hon. Beechook, Second Member for Flacq and Bon Accueil, in regard to Mobile Network Problem at Pont Bondieu along Salazie Route. I am informed that Mauritius Telecom Ltd has already conducted a study on improving coverage in this region and has identified three locations for new mobile sites, namely Crimson Hall, near Salazie Farm, and near Eau Bouillie Bus Terminal. Mauritius Telecom has already contacted the owner of Crimson Hall and a feasibility study is underway. The expected completion date for this site is by the end of May 2025. With regard to the sites near Salazie Farm and Eau Bouillie, Mauritius Telecom is currently looking for a plot of land for the setting up of a new tower at each of these sites. Subject to obtention of an appropriate plot of land and a Building and Land Use Permit, the setting up of the new tower is expected to be completed by December 2025 and May 2026, respectively. I am further informed that Emtel Ltd and MTML are looking into possible solutions to address the limitations and challenges, such as the topography, the dense vegetation, and the cost implications for investing in the mobile infrastructure in the region. Thank you, Madam Speaker.

Thank you, hon. Minister.