Goemkapronn desk
Porvorim: The GBBN broadband initiative has successfully connected 1,906 locations across the state, including government offices and Gram Panchayats, to the internet. If aligned with the state requirement, the central government scheme of Bharat Net 3.0, the state will save INR 784 crore on infrastructure and operation, as highlighted by Information Technology Minister Shri. Rohan A. Khaunte in today’s Legislative Assembly session.
The Goa Broadband Network (GBBN) which aims to establish a high-bandwidth broadband network across the entire state, facilitated by UTL, has successfully connected 414 locations and has also linked 1492 extensions from existing locations, significantly enhancing digital infrastructure in Goa including government departments, village panchayats, and schools locations.
In addressing the concerns raised by opposition leader Mr. Vijay Sardessai regarding the Goa Broadband Network (GBBN) connectivity, Minister Khaunte provided a comprehensive clarification on the GBBN stating that the revenue generated through GWAVE, the network’s service provider, stands at INR 12 crore. The Minister explained that in 2018, the government onboarded PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) to provide expert guidance on the project. Following a rigorous tender process, United Telecom Limited (UTL) emerged as the successful bidder to manage the network.
Minister Khaunte highlighted the cost efficiency of the project, noting that the government spends INR 22.80 crore per year on the initiative. In comparison, BSNL quoted INR 106.45 crore per year, which was high compared with 22crs paid Annually to UTL. Key government utilities relying on this service, including the police department Crime Criminal tracking system, finance department, ePagar, Smart City CCTV Surveillance, the entire e-District ( Goa Online ) project that provides 241 services of 38 departments online, High court and District Courts, etc are benefiting from the enhanced connectivity.
