Internet service providers (ISPs) have asked subsidy with the government to provide a 25% discount on the internet. They also make it clear that they won’t be albe to provide the discount until they get any support or relief from the government.
MyRepublica reports quoting ISPAN President Mr. Bhojraj Bhatta that there was no consultation from the government before announcing the package. They say they have been suffering from the lockdown and Covid-19 threat which puts them not in a position to give discounts.
They are currently managing their network and the increased usage which is 25% higher than before. So, they are paying more for the increased bandwidth while the user number and revenue remains the same. With this, they claim to be already in a challenging position and unable to give more.
Meanwhile the government-owned telecom operator Nepal Telecom is known for preparing to provide the announced 25% discount. Probably they will take decision soon.
The government had announced a relief package to people while extending the lockdown period for one more week. The relief package also included a discount on the internet and electricity bills by 25% among others. Find some of the key packages announced as below.
COVID-19 has threatened the whole world and we all are struggling at this moment. We could clearly see the economic crash-down that will prevail in the near future. Consequently, in this difficult situation, we all are staying at home and also working all the way long from home.
Source: https://www.nepalitelecom.com/2020/03/discount-internet-electricity-bills-lockdown.html