Nepal Telecom (NTC) started fiber to the home (FTTH) network in Dolpa district from Baisakh 02, 2081. As part of the campaign to provide high-speed internet across the country, the state-backed telecom giant started the next-generation fixed-line broadband network in the remote district of the country.
FTTH enables customers to receive high-speed internet service under NT Fiber at their homes and offices. Additionally, the customers now also have an option to get voice and IPTV services. The service was virtually inaugurated by the then communication minister Rekha Sharma from Singha Durbar.
On the occasion, the ministry highlighted that the government’s campaign to provide optical fiber internet throughout the country was being realized. “Government does seek for profit only, even if there is a loss, it will not deprive citizens of remote areas of information and communication facilities. the communication ministry stated, “Government has given priority to the policy of providing internet services throughout the country.”
Dolpa remains the 75th district to get Ntc FTTH fiber network
Ntc has extended its FTTH network across all 77 districts. But before that, Dolpa was the 75th district to get high-quality fiber network service. Before that, Ntc expanded its FTTH network in East Rukum as its 74th district for broadband service. Ntc FTTH fiber network is now available in all 77 districts across Nepal.
Ntc replaced its ADSL internet service with fiber which provides much reliable and consistent broadband service. Thanks to the rapid copper-to-FTTH fiber migration, the company has made incredible strides in upgrading its traditional broadband infrastructure. Unlike copper cable, Ntc provides internet, voice, and IPTV (NT TV) services Triple Play via a single fiber cable.
Also read: Latest Ntc Data Pack [2024] Price, Volume, Validity, Process
Internet is the basis for the Digital Nepal- MoCIT
The ministry said that the lack of electricity and reliance on solar power makes it difficult for quality telecom services. However, MoCIT promised to expand internet service even if it requires using alternative technology. In cases where transporting modern telco infrastructure is not possible, Ntc uses VSAT for communication services. The ministry admits that multilateral efforts are necessary to address the challenges the internet expansion projects face. The ministry regards internet connectivity as the foundation for Digital Nepal.
Former minister Satya Pahadi was also among the participants at the event at Singha Durbar. Speaking on the Ntc FTTH launch in Dolpa, he said that it’s important to start effective communication services in the very district. He maintained that the remote region is lagging behind in telecommunications. “There may be a tower but no phone, there may be internet access but it doesn’t work properly, attention should be paid to that”, Pahadi said.
54% of Ntc services rely on solar power and the company is paying serious attention to addressing this shortcoming.
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NTC has prioritized efforts to address challenges
Umesh Prasad Shah, Director of Nepal Telecom Provincial Directorate, Karnali who participated virtually from Dolpa in the program, said that since 54 percent of services are dependent on solar, there is a problem in service delivery, but special attention has been paid to improve the service.
Tulsi Prasad Dahal, Chief District Officer (CDO) of Dolpa, said that telecommunication services are available only in limited places in the district. He said that the FTTH network launched today has proved to be a milestone for the people in Dolpa, which is facing a major problem due to lack of internet service. You may also read: Fiber internet users reach 28.04 lakh in Nepal, Latest data
Similarly, Dolpa’s District Coordination Committee chief Shyam Roka expressed happiness that the state has started providing communication services to the scattered settlements of Dolpa.
It’s great that NT has expanded its FTTH network all over the country. However, the point is that there may still be many local levels and community entities such as schools, health centers, hospitals, and colleges that are not equipped with fiber broadband. NTA has done a lot with its RTDF broadband project to provide connectivity in community bodies. However, more expansion and quality improvement should go hand in hand.
Fiber internet could play an essential role in digital divide alleviation and accentuate the digital Nepal initiatives. NTA, NT, government, and all major ISPs could play a profound role in connecting Nepal through high-speed fiber networks.
