(a) the present status of the installation of Submarine Optical Cable in the Union Territory;
(b) whether the Government has received any representation/request in this regard and if so, the details thereof; and
(c) the action taken by the Government thereon?
THE MINISTER OF STATE (IC) OF THE MINISTRY OF COMMUNICATIONS &
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS
(SHRI MANOJ SINHA)
(a) Telecom Regularity Authority of India (TRAI) vide its recommendations dated 22.07.14 on “Improving Telecom Services in Andaman & Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep” had recommended that keeping in view strategic importance of Lakshadweep and for secure and reliable connectivity, a submarine cable may be laid to connect Kochi/Cochin with Kavaratti and other major islands viz. Agatti, Androth, Kalpini, Amini and Minicoy of Lakshadweep. Based on the recommendations, Department had decided to undertake a cost benefit analysis and feasibility study for laying submarine OFC in Lakshadweep along with validation of the estimated cost before proceeding ahead. On the basis of cost benefit analysis carried out by Telecommunication Consultants India Limited (TCIL), ‘In-principle’ approval has been accorded for preparation of DPR to TCIL for the submarine OFC connectivity between Kochi and six Islands of Lakshadweep Islands viz. Kavaratti, Agatti, Androth, Kalpeni, Amini and Minicoy.
(b) A Representation/request has been received from Shri Mohammed Faizal, Member of Parliament. Lakshadweep Islands vide letter dated 30.11.2017 for providing submarine OFC connectivity for all the eleven islands of Lakshadweep in a single go stating that these islands are also strategically important, inhabited and need e-governance and additional 176 Km submarine OFC will be required for covering remaining five islands viz. Bitra, Chetlat, Kadmath, Kiltan and Bangaram
(c) Work order for preparation of DPR to connect Kochi and six Islands of Lakshadweep viz. Kavaratti, Agatti, Androth, Kalpeni, Amini and Minicoy has been issued to TCIL on 27.11.2017. On submission of DPR by TCIL, approval of the Competent Authority would be sought for the project including the scope and quantum of funding, implementation strategy and the funding modalities.