Saying Hello from the Top

Written by Hafsa Ahsan • January 2011

This incredible news item not only spells out a milestone in the history of a South Asian country, it also highlights the many facets of advancing technology: Ncell, subsidiary of Sweden-based TeliaSonera, the first private telecom company in Nepal, has launched 3-G mobile internet services from none other than Mount Everest – specifically, at a height of 17,388 feet. Essentially, this means that a standard GSM, 3G-enabled network is now available at the top of the world. Teliasonera is the fifth largest mobile company in Europe and possesses the controlling and operating stake in Ncell.

The Pros
At first sight, this seems like a really phenomenal development, which indicates that mountaineers, trekkers and other hikers using the trails of Mount Everest would be able to remain connected with each other and with the rest of the world. In common parlance, this means they will be able to post updates on Facebook, check their email, Twitter their experiences, email video clips and the possibilities are endless. All this will be attainable at economical rates. The reliance on expensive satellite phones as the only means of communication (facilitated by China Mobile in 2007) will lessen to a certain extent.

Moreover, this development also seems like good news for the population of Nepal. The company in question has pledged to invest in this network so that average Nepalese can also access all these services. That is actually the “ulterior” motive of the company – increase mobile phone penetration in the country. This is one of the ways to do it as through this network, Nepalese people will be able to avail cell phone services, including mobile internet.

Experts are also suggesting that this network could be used to gather weather-related information for the benefit of the climbers. Also, a warning of flash floods can be issued well in advance based on the alerts generated through this network. This spells relief for the areas which are affected by such floods – they can now have an advance warning and thus, prepare accordingly.

The Cons

There are quite a few travelers, who have expressed their skepticism, regarding the introduction of the 3-G network on the top of the world. Their main argument is that people travel and come to Mount Everest just to get away from the world of inter-connectedness (read, Internet). They enjoy the remoteness of the area and the fact that they are away from the world of connectivity. This is no longer possible; they cannot “disconnect” anymore.
This particular disadvantage has the potential to “offset” the predicted advantage of more tourists. If climbers and tourists are looking for a more remote location with no infusion of technology, they might actually reject Nepal and Mount Everest as a potential location.

A final word
It is imperative to analyze every development from a critical eye in order to gauge its true utility. If this remains a purely commercial venture, designed to advantage only the travelers, it goes without saying that it will cause resentment among the local people – and for a good reason. If the profits of this venture benefit only the European company, then there will be no positive impact on the Nepalese economy. The introduction of a 3-G network seems like a great move, however, the regulatory authorities must ensure that the real benefits accrue to the Nepalese people first and foremost.