The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has urged the Ministry of Power (MoP) to facilitate broadband expansion by allowing the leasing of fibers on Optical Ground Wires (OPGW) installed by Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (PowerGrid). This move aims to enhance connectivity, particularly in rural and remote areas. This notice was issued on November 22, 2024.
Key Points
The DoT has recommended that future transmission projects by PowerGrid should include the installation of at least 48-fiber OPGW, instead of the current 24-fiber standard.
By leasing additional fibers on OPGW, telecom service providers (TSPs), internet service providers (ISPs), and internet protocol (IP) service providers can extend their networks to remote areas, ensuring wider broadband coverage.
This approach leverages existing infrastructure, reducing the need for new fiber optic cable installations, and accelerating the deployment of broadband services.
The Ministry of Power is expected to incorporate this recommendation into future transmission projects, including those under Tariff-Based Competitive Bidding (TBCB) and Regulated Tariff Mechanism (RTM).
This initiative aligns with the government’s Digital India vision and its goal of providing affordable and accessible broadband connectivity to all citizens.
