The Goa Electricity Department has set a deadline of February 1 for internet and cable operators to remove or regularize their cables on electricity poles across the state. The department began a crackdown on unauthorized cables over the weekend, starting in the state capital, Panaji. In a meeting held on Monday, Executive Engineer Kashinath Shetye announced that operators have until January 31 to either remove their cables from the poles or pay the required fees to the department.
The initiative has significantly affected internet and cable services, including news channels. Internet operators have approached the electricity department, requesting more time to regularize the cables laid on the poles. Shetye stated that a 15-day window has been provided for operators to settle their dues and formalize their use of the poles, or they will face further action.
He highlighted that electricity department offices across Goa will begin enforcement measures as many cable operators and internet companies have not paid fees for the past two years, resulting in a financial loss for the state exchequer. According to the Information Technology policy, operators are required to pay Rs 300 per annum per pole for using electricity pole services. Shetye further clarified that in areas with underground cable systems, no overhead wires will be permitted; instead, cables must be routed underground.
He emphasized that by February 1, the department will begin removing unauthorized cables from poles, as they have been causing inconvenience to electricity department staff during maintenance and repairs.
Deadline compliance impacts Goa cable services
The All Goa Internet Service Providers Association (AGISPA) has expressed its willingness to comply with the Electricity Department’s regulations regarding overhead cable installation.
However, the association has requested that the power department halt the ongoing cutting of wires until the court rules on the pending case concerning wire installations. Representatives of the newly formed AGISPA pointed out that the real losers in the wire-cutting issue are the end users. Mahendra Tiwari said, “There are students, elderly people, and offices for whom internet access is essential.
How does cutting wires serve their interests? The real victims in this situation are not the internet service providers, but the end users.”
Sagar Govekar, Vice President of AGISPA, emphasised that the government must support internet service providers (ISPs) by facilitating proper provisions for cable installations, with the possibility of charging for this service if necessary. “We pay GST and an 8% AGR royalty to the Union government.
We provide services to many people, generate revenue for the government, and yet our cables are being cut,” he said. Meanwhile, the Electricity Department has continued its cable-cutting operations in the Panjim and Margao areas, removing several cables from electricity poles. The Cable TV Networking and Service Providers Association of Goa (CNSPAG) has filed an appeal with the High Court of Bombay at Goa, seeking a directive to halt the Electricity Department’s actions.
Despite this, the department’s operations have proceeded unabated.
Noah Nguyen is a multi-talented developer who brings a unique perspective to his craft. Initially a creative writing professor, he turned to Dev work for the ability to work remotely. He now lives in Seattle, spending time hiking and drinking craft beer with his fiancee.
