Digital divide in the name of 4G
A few days ago, Bangladesh’s five mobile operators launched 4th generation (4G) network technology, which was followed by flashy advertisements. However, we are now hearing that it will take three more years to make 4G coverage fully available across the country. For the time being, the technology will be limited to Dhaka and some other big cities.
In reality, even stable, good-quality 2G coverage-let alone 4G-is not available everywhere in the country. In this context, 4G coverage in big cities is actually broadening the digital divide between cities and rural villages. I urge the mobile operators and authorities concerned to focus on ensuring quality 2G and 3G coverage across the country first. Then, maybe, we can talk about 4G.
Md Tarek Aziz Bappi
By email
