DHAKA: Internet service providers said full removal of overhead cables is not possible within November 30, the government-set deadline, as the construction of underground ducts is yet to be completed.

“We will remove overhead cables within the quickest possible time after constructing underground ducts,” said Abdul Hakim Progoti, Secretary-General of the Internet Service Providers Association of Bangladesh (ISPAB) in his written speech at a press conference in the city.

He added, “Before building underground network, the government decision to take away overhead cables is ‘impractical’.”


ISPAB also urged the government to create pressure on the companies responsible for nationwide telecommunications transmission (NTTN) through building underground channel timely.

The association of ISPs made the comment two days after the government set November 30, extending the time from October 31, as the last date for implementing the government decision to remove all overhead cables from the city. The decision was taken in a meeting with Power Secretary Abul Kalam Azad in the chair.       

ISPAB also demanded a common duct to be set up under the auspices of Dhaka City Corporation in order to provide internet services to people at a minimal cost.

Replying to a query, ISPAB President Aktaruzzaman Manzu said, “We will have to discontinue our service if the government cuts off our lines for not executing its decision within the timeframe.”

The press conference was also attended, among others, by ISPAB joint-secretary General Rased Amin Biddyut and ISPAB member Emdadul Haque.

BDST: 1341 HRS, AUGUST 28, 2010.