MARGAO
Internet users and cable operators may breathe a sigh of relief after PWD Minister Digambar Kamat intervened to resolve the issue of cables hanging on electric poles in Margao. Kamat clarified that his intervention is limited to Margao, considering the fallout of the recent disconnections and requests from cable operators.
A day after senior power official Kashinath Shetye cut internet cables, Kamat arranged a meeting between cable operator representatives and senior power official Rajeev Samant at the Aquem head office on Thursday. The minister emphasized that the goal was to ensure uninterrupted internet connectivity while finding a practical solution.
During the meeting, cable operators agreed to clear the stretch between Arlem and Gogol, which posed a danger to motorists and pedestrians. Moly Fernandes, president of the cable operators, said remaining stretches will be cleared after this section is addressed. She acknowledged that some cables had been installed by operators without following norms and clarified that the power department was not at fault.
Fernandes requested Shetye to temporarily pause the disconnection drive to avoid disrupting internet services and inconveniencing customers.
Power official Rajeev Samant said the meeting, chaired by Kamat, aimed to resolve issues arising from cable disconnections. When asked about Power Department collecting revenue from operators using electric poles, Samant said discussions on revenue will need to involve senior power department officials and the IT Department.
Citizens slam Power Dept over internet cut during exam season
MARGAO: Citizens have criticised the Power Department for disconnecting internet cables just as students prepare for school examinations.
Milagres Fernandes of Fatorda questioned the timing, saying internet access is crucial not only for students but also for administration and the judiciary. “My daughter faced no connectivity on Wednesday, and hundreds of students are in the same situation,” he added.
Citizens urged the government to intervene immediately to restore services and prevent disruption during this critical period. The sudden action by the department has sparked widespread concern over its impact on students’ preparations and daily activities reliant on internet connectivity.
