Nagpur Implements New Approval System for Telecom Road Digging
Nagpur Municipal Corporation introduces a time-bound process for telecom companies to dig roads for fiber optic installations.
NMC sets a 67-day deadline for Right of Way applications.
Restoration charges for road digging have increased significantly.
A new portal-based SOP aims to streamline the approval process.
In a significant move to regulate road digging by telecom companies, the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) has established a stringent 67-day timeline for processing Right of Way (RoW) applications. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance efficiency and ensure that applications are addressed promptly under the Telecommunications (Right of Way) Rules, 2024.
The newly introduced portal-based Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) is designed to prevent delays that could lead to automatic approvals, known as 'deemed permission.' To facilitate compliance, the NMC will implement a series of automated alerts, including a red alert seven days before the deadline, an orange alert three days prior, and a final reminder 24 hours before the expiration. These alerts will escalate to key officials, including the executive engineer and municipal commissioner, ensuring accountability throughout the process.
In addition to the time constraints, the NMC has revised the financial obligations for telecom operators. The restoration fees for road repairs have seen a notable increase, with charges set at Rs11,696 per cubic meter for asphalt and Rs11,479 for concrete roads, reflecting a rise of approximately 28% and 37% respectively. Furthermore, the rates for restoration of paver blocks and roadside shoulders have also been established, adding to the financial responsibilities of telecom companies.
The SOP mandates that telecom firms provide a commitment to restore the roads prior to excavation and submit a bank guarantee equivalent to 20% of the estimated restoration costs. They will be responsible for the restoration of the excavated areas and any damage resulting from their operations. The NMC has also updated the charges related to optical fiber cable works, which have increased in line with a 10% annual escalation policy.
Looking ahead, the NMC aims to enhance coordination among its departments by establishing a GIS-based RoW asset register. This database will include crucial information on telecom ducts and restoration statuses, facilitating better planning and reducing the need for repeated excavations. The implementation of the SOP has been approved by municipal commissioner Vipin Itankar, with further discussions scheduled for the General Body meeting on September 16, ensuring that the new regulations align with state mandates.
