More to get broadband connections

Dharma SRI ABEYRATNE

The Telecommunication and Information Technology Ministry will popularise broadband connections in line with the e-Sri Lanka program, a Telecommunication and Information Technology Ministry official said.

A task force comprising members of the Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (TRC) and Information Communication and Technology Agency (ICTA) has been appointed to explore avenues to popularise broadband connections due to the low penetration of the service.

Even though there are about 450,000 broadband connections in the country, the number is considered low when considering e-Sri Lanka goals. The task force will explore ways and means to reduce cost and encourage telecommunication companies to supply broadband connections. The TRC is also looking into the ways of improving quality and reliability of broadband connections.

"It has been noticed that it is difficult for customers to reach proper download and upload speed with the broadband connection provided.

Therefore, quality improving measures will also be taken," the official said.

The TRC has issued guidelines to connection providers to maintain quality of their services.

The cost of telecommunication equipment will be reduced since the Government has reduced the tax on them from 8 percent to 5.5 percent.