A leading telecom company has activated the first phase of a network expansion to former war-torn areas in the north, which may cost up to 10 million US dollars, officials said.

Key Northern towns of Kilinochchi, Mullaitivu, as well as Pooneryn, Thunnukkai, Mankulam and Elephant Pass are now connected to its national network, the company said.

"We have connected the first six sites, and we will build 60 more towers in tandem with re-settlement,” company sources revealed.

The Sri Lanka's telecom regulator is spearheading the building of a 172 metre broadcast tower in Kokavil, which will also be shared with telecom operators.
Director General of Telecommunication Regulatory, Priyantha Kariyapperuma said operators are being encouraged to share towers.