The National Institute of Technology Karnataka (NITK), Surathkal, has deployed more than 130 fibre optic internet connections in Agumbe, a remote rainforest village in the Western Ghats. Agumbe, known for receiving over 7,000 mm of rainfall annually, was long considered a 'no network zone.' Led by Dr. Mohit P. Tahiliani, Associate Professor of Computer Science and Engineering at NITK, the project took over a year to complete in harsh weather and tough terrain. Agumbe is located 660 metres above sea level in Shivamogga district and is infamous for its accident-prone Agumbe ghat with 14 hairpin bends. Wireless connectivity was found unsuitable due to heavy rains, dense forests, environmental interference, and damage from wildlife like monkeys. Instead, the team designed a fibre-optic network that considers steep terrain, landslides, frequent power outages, and aims to protect the sensitive ecology. The network uses a mix of underground and aerial cables to reduce environmental harm. Protective measures include redundant routing, special coverings, and power-efficient equipment backed by energy-efficient and renewable power backups. NITK’s detailed field surveys and community talks helped place connectivity points at healthcare centres, schools, farms, government offices, research centres, tourist spots, and homes. Local residents played a vital role in planning and installing the infrastructure. Funded by the IEEE Communication Society and IEEE Tech4Good under 'Internet for All,' the project improves healthcare, education, farming, research, and long-term sustainability. Local shops, homestays, guides, and restaurants now accept UPI payments, boosting the local economy. Wildlife research centres tracking King Cobras and other species can now share real-time data with institutions nationwide. Tourism benefits from better online bookings, reviews, and communication. Despite challenges like fallen trees and landslides, cable protection and multiple routes keep the network reliable. Dr. Tahiliani said this model could be replicated in other remote, forested, and hilly parts of India, stressing that policy support is key to sustaining internet as a public utility in sensitive areas.