“The internet along highways and railways remains a pressing issue. This is tied to safety, infrastructure development, and the everyday needs of citizens.
We are not yet inquiring about air routes, although ideally, that is also necessary. However, discussions regarding ground infrastructure have been ongoing for quite some time, and lawmakers have made numerous amendments to legislation to ensure its development.
Question to the Ministry of Digital Development: What stage is the implementation of the legal norms for internet installation along highways at?
In May of this year, KTJ announced that satellite internet would begin operating along railway tracks. What is the status of this project, especially considering that its completion was planned by the end of the year?
Question to representatives of the Ministry of Industry: In the process of implementing the legislative norms concerning the construction of antenna structures along roads, many issues arise with passing examinations in MAES. The structures are quite simple.
How do you view the possibility of simplifying the approval and examination procedures to accelerate construction?” she stated.
The Ministry of Digital Development responded that last year an analysis was conducted on the “white spots” of internet absence along republican highways. Based on this analysis, 243 points were identified where antenna structures need to be installed.
Currently, the regional administrations are developing project documentation. About 80 points have already been implemented. By 2025, these “white spots” will be eliminated. Additionally, an analysis of local roads has begun, the results of which will also be included in the plans.
“Regarding railways. Various technologies for connecting to the internet were considered, including mobile networks and satellite systems. The most optimal solution recognized is internet via low-orbit satellites (such as Starlink and OneWeb).
Negotiations with OneWeb have been conducted, and in January, a pilot project is planned to be launched in collaboration with KTJ. Based on the pilot's results, a decision will be made about scaling up, depending on the quality of services and tariffs.
The percentage of coverage of international routes with stable internet. At present, the exact percentage of coverage has not been calculated. We will address this issue together with our colleagues and provide further information,” the department responded.
A representative of the Ministry of Industry answered a question regarding his department, stating that the issue of simplifying the approval and examination procedures for the construction of antenna structures is indeed relevant.
“We are currently working on this problem together with the business community and industry ministries. There is an objective need to simplify the procedures, as the structures themselves are not complex.
However, we must take into account the safety of citizens and the population, which requires a balanced approach.
Work on this issue is ongoing. We will further inform you about the progress of the process and any possible changes,” he said.