Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: Goa Electricity Department today informed that it has starting cutting internet cables from electricity poles across state.
“The Electricity Department has begun cutting internet cables from electricity poles across Goa from today. No operator has cleared dues so far,” said EE Kashinath Shetye
He further said that so far 15 poles have been cleared and more will continue. Shetye said that operators should take a survey along with department and put in permissions.
“The cutting of cables will also be applicable to other cities. Drive will be held across state,” he added
All Goa Internet Service Providers Association (AGISPA) also requested the Electricity Dept not to cut internet cables, stating the matter is sub-judice with the next hearing on March 18.
They assured compliance with guidelines and payment of dues, warning that cable cuts could impact 2-3 lakh customers.
Goa Bench of the Bombay High Court on Monday refused to grant a stay to the All Goa Internet Service Providers’ Association against the electricity department’s action of cutting their cables on electricity poles due to policy violations.
He said that the HC has refused to grant the stay. “We have sought legal opinion and have been advised that we can go ahead,” he said.
Shetye added that internet service providers have failed to pay the licence fees for the last five years, along with penalties and compensation, despite being issued notices.
