Consider satellite to boost coverage

 I AM impressed with the statement made by the Managing Director of PNG DataCo Paul Komboi in The National on Feb 29 about the government’s interest in launching PNG’s own satellite into orbit in space. 

This technology has its place and usefulness in the country. 

Rural and isolated government districts, health centres and aid posts, schools and businesses would use VSAT systems for communication when conducting their businesses. 

In addition, the most robust and reliable technology for rural application is VSAT satellite. 

I commend the Prime Minister and his Government for entrusting DataCo with this important national project.

However, reading from recent articles and viewpoints in both newspapers, Telikom PNG was supposed to have transferred the Gerehu Satellite Earth Station to PNG DataCo with the rest of the wholesale assets and that should have happened at the end of 2014. 

This has not happened as directed by the Government. Therefore while the country embraces this move by DataCo, it is more fitting and viable that Telikom move the Gerehu Satellite Earth Station to DataCo so that DataCo can rationalise its investment well to cater for this need.

In order for the industry to enjoy the benefits of what DataCo promised to offer, the first step the  Government needs to do is to transfer of wholesale assets to DataCo. 

Unless this happens, we will continue to suffer from poor and unreliable services, packaged and excessively priced by Telikom PNG.

Telco Mangi, Via email