PANAJI: Amid the ongoing tensions over unauthorized cable installations on electricity poles, the Goa government has directed all Telecom and Internet Service Providers within the State to remove all old or unused cables and accessories immediately, and the same be laid underground wherever ducts are available to minimize clutter.
In a press statement issued, the government has directed the service providers to apply online through the 'Gatishakti Sanchar Portal' for utilising the electricity department's infrastructure for telecom, internet, TV, and communication cables. The portal can be accessed at gatishaktisanchar.gov.in.
The government said that in the Telecommunications (Right of Way) Rules, 2024, providers are required to submit their applications via the Portal, ensuring that all requests are processed digitally.
"This directive applies even to those providers who had previously submitted hard-copy applications. The Electricity Department will review and approve these applications on a merit basis, following the payment of the requisite fees," it added.
To streamline coordination, the government has recently appointed two nodal officers for North and South Goa to facilitate communication between service providers and the electricity department.
The government has directed the service providers to ensure safety measures, maintain aesthetics, and install cables without disrupting the work of the Electricity Department’s line staff.
The Goa Electricity Department, led by Executive Engineer Kashinath Shetye, had been cracking down on unauthorized cable installations, citing safety hazards and revenue losses of Rs 50 crore. The High Court dismissed pleas from service providers, allowing the department to proceed with cable removals. In response, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has proposed shifting to underground cabling, urging ISPs to collaborate.
Shetye has been relieved of his responsibilities concerningthe regulation of telecom, internet, and TV cables on the electricity dept infrastructure. The Goa govt appointed Superintending Engineers Shailesh NaikBurye and Rajiv Samant as nodal officers for North and South Goa.
