NTA preparing to develop GIS based database of telecom infrastructure

KATHMANDU, APRIL 18-- The government is developing a database of telecom infrastructures based on geographic information system (GIS). It is mainly focused at maintaining digital record of infrastructures, including optical fibre, microwave towers, and base transceiver stations (BTS) spread across the country.


GIS database will help identify the locations from where optical fibre is extended, total length of the fibre links, and number of towers installed and locations, among others. Even as the country witnessed rapid development in the telecom sector over the last one decade, the government is yet to maintain scientific record of telecom infrastructures.

There are over 5,000 mobile towers in the country and optical fibre is being extended by Nepal Telecom, Nepal Electricity Authority, and private sector telecom companies, too. In a bid to develop the database, Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) will hire a consultant as part of its programme for the current fiscal. The consultant to be hired will prepare a GIS-based database and maps of telecommunication infrastructure based on the data provided by NTA and the topographic base map of the Survey Department. Moreover, consultant will also develop a customised GIS-based Telecommunications Infrastructure Management Information System, according to NTA.

NTA said it would give the consultant three months to complete the development of GIS database. “GIS based data will ultimately help us in knowing the geographic areas and planning expansion in service coverage areas,” said Ananda Raj Khanal, acting chief of NTA.

He added that since the government has for long been planning infrastructure sharing and establishing a separate company for management of infrastructures, preparation of database will provide valuable information on exact locations and types of infrastructures.

Normally, telecom infrastructure sharing means sharing of tower, base transceiver stations, microwave radio equipment, optical fibre, antenna and generator, among others. Infrastructure sharing has already been made mandatory for capable telecom companies but is yet to come into practice due to the absence of clear guidelines.

The executive order on ‘Telecommunication Infrastructure Development and Sharing’ issued by the government two years ago had decided to implement the provision of sharing of telecom and broadcasting infrastructure. - See more at: http://thehimalayantimes.com/fullNews.php?headline=NTA+preparing+to++develop+telecom++infrastructure+database+soon&NewsID=412057#sthash.JkztPuCt.dpuf