Bengal govt plans underground network for cable TV lines

The Bengal government is planning to construct an underground network of cable TV lines in an effort to keep the city clean, a state minister said on Wednesday.

"In New Town, we have done it and will start soon in Bidhannagar. In Kolkata, we will soon start a pilot project for underground laying of cable TV lines," state Urban Development Minister Firhad Hakim said at the inauguration of 'Cable TV Show'.

He said this is part of a plan by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee who wants the city to look more beautiful without wires hanging from every nook and corner. According to the minister, this would also give jobs to many unemployed youth in the city.

Cable TV Equipment Traders and Manufacturers Association (CTMA) Secretary K K Binani said the move would minimise chances of any outside disturbances in connectivity as sometimes wires get damaged during cyclones, felling of trees and other similar instances.

The industry body said flat licence fees for multi-system operators have become an entry barrier for small entrepreneurs.

"There is a flat rate of Rs 1 lakh for whether I want licence for all over India or one small town. This is in favour of bigger players. We want smaller fees for those who want licence for smaller places," Binani said.