For expanding internet access across Bangladesh, the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has initiated the formation of a committee aimed at crafting guidelines for satellite internet provision. This landmark decision signals the potential entry of prominent ventures such as Elon Musk’s Starlink and its competitors into the Bangladeshi market.
The decision came to light following an internal meeting where BTRC officials approved the establishment of a committee comprising representatives from various divisions. Tasked with formulating guidelines for internet delivery via non-geostationary satellite orbit (NGSO) systems, the committee’s formation underscores Bangladesh’s commitment to leveraging advanced technologies to bridge digital divides.
NGSO satellites, distinguished by their dynamic orbiting patterns relative to Earth’s surface, promise enhanced connectivity and data transmission capabilities, particularly in remote and underserved regions. Companies like SpaceX, OneWeb, and Amazon have been pioneering the deployment of NGSO satellite constellations, aiming to revolutionize global internet accessibility.
Last December, the Bangladesh government took a decisive step by signaling its intent to grant a license to Starlink, the brainchild of American aerospace juggernaut SpaceX led by visionary entrepreneur Elon Musk. This move, championed by State Minister for Telecom and ICT, Zunaid Ahmed Palak, underscores the government’s commitment to democratizing internet access, ensuring connectivity reaches even the most remote corners of Bangladesh.
The formation of the committee marks a proactive approach by BTRC to assess the feasibility and implications of satellite internet services within the Bangladeshi market. With four telecom operators already providing mobile internet services and thousands of small and medium enterprises offering broadband services, the landscape is primed for further evolution with the advent of satellite internet.
Despite these challenges, SpaceX has expressed keen interest in launching Starlink services in Bangladesh. Demonstrations showcasing Starlink’s impressive internet speeds to various government entities have fueled anticipation for the service’s arrival. Bangladesh Satellite Company’s acquisition of Starlink terminals for performance analysis underscores the country’s readiness to embrace cutting-edge satellite technology.
The foray into satellite internet not only promises expanded connectivity but also positions Bangladesh at the forefront of global digital innovation. With competitors like OneWeb and Amazon also eyeing the satellite internet space, the stage is set for a transformative shift in Bangladesh’s internet landscape. As the committee begins its work on formulating satellite internet guidelines, stakeholders eagerly anticipate the dawn of a new era in internet connectivity, one where barriers to access are dismantled, and opportunities for growth and development abound.
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