Telecom regulator Nepal Telecommunication Authority (NTA) has issued a warning after Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) started cutting off the power supply lines of some ISPs causing a risk of internet shutdown. Releasing a notice, the authority said that the move has drawn its attention and sternly criticized the electricity body.
The authority even reminded that actions leading to the interruption of communication services are punishable. It referred to the Telecommunication Act, 2053 which outlaws telecom service blockades.
NEA started cutting off power supply lines again after Internet Service Providers didn’t work on managing their messy cables on poles. The ISPs did start their cable management work but were ‘ineffective.’ After warning that it would start work on its own if the companies won’t comply, Kulman Ghising led authority started removing electricity lines to the ISPs.
Earlier, NEA gave an ultimatum of 45 days to the ISPs. It also urged them to comply with a set of criteria for their cable use.
Also read: NEA Cuts Electricity, ISPAN Warns of Internet Outage
NTA warning NEA after the latter resorts to cutting power supply lines
NTA says cutting off power lines has interrupted internet services in many parts of the country already. It has caused disruptions in banking, airline services, etc.
Drawing attention to the fact that telecom services are one of the essential services, the regulator requested all to protect telecom infrastructures. It urged parties in concern to find resolve through dialogue and deliver telecom services without interruption. It urged NEA, ISPAN, and other stakeholders to sit for a unilateral dialogue.
“We request all concerned to take legal action against anyone who disrupts essential telecommunication services of the state and protect such infrastructure. Also, since every problem can be resolved only through negotiation, we sincerely request the Nepal Electricity Authority, Internet Service Providers Association of Nepal, and all related parties to solve the problem through mutual discussion and make arrangements for the uninterrupted use of essential telecommunication services,” the Telecommunication Authority said in its notice. said
On the other hand, NTA has also said that effective cable management work requires a sustainable approach. ISPs have demanded access to the underground cable duct to solve the persisting cable issue.
Some ISPs have started using power backups in case their power supply is cut off to keep their services online. Have you witnessed any internet connectivity issues due to the fresh move by NEA? You can share in the comments below.
