The fibre-optic cables to be laid from Seaqaqa to Savusavu will have a capacity of100 gigabits per second, according to Telecom Fiji chief executive officer Charles Goundar.
At the groundbreaking of the project this week, Mr Goundar said this capacity was not fixed.
“It be increased in the future to meet growing demand,” he said, without disclosing the value of the investment.
“It’s quite a significant project though. I think you will know it at the right time,” he said.
He said the project would generate employment, benefitting villages in Seaqaqa and Savusavu.
“One of the agreement with the contractor engaged for the project is that they will have staff from villages,” he said.
The expansion, he said would support ongoing economic growth and development in Fiji.
“This approximately 90 kilometers data not only represents a physical infrastructure,” he said.
“It symbolises a long term solution to growing demand of data in the two main centres.”
As part of the project, he said the underground fibre optic cables would connect with the high-capacity bandwidth which was available via the submarine cable.
“The expansion emphasises our dedication to providing robust and reliable connectivity to communities across Fiji,” he said.
Commissioner Northern Usaia Rainima said the fibre cable optic was a worthwhile investment.
“The extension of fibre optic cables between Seaqaqa and Savusavu is a commendable initiative that will greatly benefit the Northern region,” he said.
Enhanced connectivity, Mr Rainima said was essential for driving economic growth, fostering innovation, and improving access to essential services.
“I applaud Telecom Fiji for their commitment to bridging the digital divide,” he said.
He said he looked forward to the positive impact the project would have on in communities across Seaqaqa and Savusavu.
Source: https://www.fijitimes.com.fj/new-domestic-fibre-optic-cable/