The Union Cabinet has approved the proposal for provisioning submarine optical fibre cable connectivity between Kochi and Lakshadweep Islands, entailing a cost of Rs 10.72 billion.
The project entails provision of a direct communication link through a dedicated submarine optical fibre cable (OFC) between Kochi and 11 islands of Lakshadweep — Kavaratti, Kalpeni, Agati, Amini, Androth, Minicoy, Bangaram, Bitra, Chetlat, Kiltan and Kadmat.
The project is expected to completed by May 2023 and will be funded by Universal Service Obligation Fund. The ownership of the asset under the project will rest with USOF.
Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited has been nominated as project execution agency and Telecommunications Consultant India Ltd (TCIL) as the technical consultant of the project.
The project would enable a more seamless delivery of e-Governance services at the doorstep of citizens and will also help with the potential development of fisheries, coconut based industries and high-value tourism. Further, it will help with educational development in term of tele-education and in healthcare in terms of telemedicine facilities.
