THE installation of fibre-optic network around Port Elizabeth have been met with mixed reactions, with some residents happy about the faster internet speeds it allows, while others have been angered by the disruption caused by the digging up of roads and driveways.
The service provider, Telelanga, has been constructing fibre networks in Port Elizabeth for SA Digital Villages since March in Mount Pleasant, Walmer Heights, Summerstrand, Humewood, Newton Park, Millpark and Sherwood. Installations are currently underway in other parts of Port Elizabeth, with completion set for end of this year.
Optical fibre installations entail the laying of optical fibre cables in ducting (pipes) under the ground or overhead on poles. Currently, most optical fibre cables in South Africa are being laid underground.
Telelanga’s general manager, Dieter Kusel, said that optical fibre networks are crucial to cater for the demand of higher internet speeds.
“There is a huge demand for online streaming services such as Netflix, Showmax and DStv, as well as online gaming.
“All developed countries have deployed optical fibre networks and this trend and demand is also now spreading to developing countries like South Africa. Internet consumers will be left behind if optical fibre networks are not deployed fast,” Kusel said.
However, the installations have damaged pavements and driveways, causing mayhem for some residents and businesses.
ROB Wylde, chairperson of the ACDP in Summerstrand, said he had made numerous calls to the contractor to get the remedial work done, but the pavements and roads look like a war zone of trenches.
Wylde added, “I have not had contact with the telecommunication company, who have cut through a section of the tar road, adjacent to the pavement, all along the roads in Summerstrand.
“The trench is still open and is being filled up with all sorts of rubbish. Also, pieces of tar are chipping off, which is leading to a bigger problem. It is apparent that no one from the metro is concerned or willing to take action,” he said.
Kusel said they stick to the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality’s rules with regard to the opening and closing of the trenches.
He said, “Exceptions do occur, but we always try to address issues as soon as practically possible. Regarding the reinstatement, we always try our utmost best to reinstate the sidewalks to the same or a better condition and where problems are reported we always go back and fix the issues.”
The reinstatement time frames vary depending on weather conditions; however, Kusel said that it’s done within the duration of the project roll-out, which is usually between six to eight weeks.
Ward 2 Councillor, Renaldo Gouws, said after numerous complaints from residents, Telelanga was available at all times to deal with issues.
Gouws said, “I see these installations as a positive as they provide my ward with a much needed upgrade of infrastructure.
“With fibre in the area, residents not only benefit from lightning fast internet connections, but the property value also goes up as a fibre connection is a sought after technology that not many suburbs currently can boast about. It also provides the metro and private security companies with an opportunity to upgrade cameras in the area that can be more detailed and act as a deterrent against crime.”
Kusel added that future projects in Port Elizabeth are still in the planning phases and cannot be confirmed at this juncture.
