Attappadi embraces digital connectivity with KFON: Singer Nanjiamma receives first Connection

PALAKKAD: Attappadi, a prominent tribal region in Kerala, has taken a significant leap into the digital age with the introduction of the Kerala Fibre Optic Network (KFON). Celebrated Malayalam singer Nanjiamma had the honour of receiving the first KFON connection in Attappadi. The connection to Nanjiamma's residence was made possible through Attappadi Cable Vision, a dedicated last-mile network provider. The inaugural event was graced by Agali Gram Panchayat Vice President Srilakshmi Sreekumar, Panchayat members Parameswaran and Kannamma, and officials like Binu and Vimal Kumar were also present to mark this momentous occasion.

Bridging the Digital Divide in Tribal Villages

In its initial rollout, KFON will provide free internet connections to 250 families in Attappadi, prioritizing remote tribal villages such as Nakkupathi, Kavundical, Idavani, Bhuthayar, Vechapati, Vellakulam, and Moolagangal. These areas, currently lacking mobile network coverage, will benefit immensely from this initiative, addressing critical communication challenges, especially during emergencies, and significantly enhancing educational resources for children.

KFON has achieved a major milestone this month by surpassing 10,000 commercial connections across Kerala. Additionally, internet leased lines have been provided to 130 large enterprises. The initiative is set to extend free connections to an additional 14,000 economically disadvantaged families, with 5,856 families already enjoying the service, which offers 1.5 GB of data per day at a speed of 20 Mbps.

Furthermore, KFON has been implemented in 26,573 government and public sector institutions across various districts, with ongoing efforts to connect the remaining institutions swiftly. The network aims to generate substantial revenue through internet-leased lines and dark fibre leases. Currently, 5,000 km of dark fibres have been leased to various companies, with plans to expand to 10,000 km by year-end, projecting Rs 50 crore in revenue.

KFON's monthly operational cost is Rs 15 crore, covering payments to Bell, repayments to KIFB, internet bandwidth charges, electricity charges, administrative costs, and dues to the Department of Telecommunications (DOT).

For commercial access to KFON's innovative services, individuals and businesses are encouraged to visit the My KFON mobile app or the official website www.kfon.in.