PANJIM: The Department of Telecom (DoT), Government of India, has announced that the Gatishakti Sanchar Portal is now open for online applications from February 15. This move is expected to resolve the two-month-long internet disruption in Goa caused by cable-cutting issues. The portal, accessible at gatishaktisanchar.gov.in, will allow Facility Providers, including telecom and internet service providers, to apply for the use of the Electricity Department’s infrastructure for cable installation.
Under the Telecommunications (Right of Way) Rules, 2024, all applications must be processed online. Facility Providers who previously submitted applications in hard copy must reapply through the portal. The Electricity Department will assess applications on merit after payment of the required fees. To streamline coordination, two nodal officers have been appointed for North and South Goa.
Meanwhile, the High Court of Bombay at Goa has directed cable operators to pay 20% of their pending dues to the Electricity Department for using its infrastructure.