Ranchi: State-run power distribution company Jharkhand Bijli Vitran Nigam Limited (JBVNL) has issued a stern directive to telecom operators in Ranchi, demanding they regularise their optical fibre communication (OFC) cables mounted on electricity poles within 15 days. Failure to comply will result in immediate removal of the cables. This move is part of JBVNL's efforts to address the problem of dangling overhead wires across the city, which not only pose significant safety hazards but also create an unsightly mess.
Safety Concerns and Unauthorised Cabling
Manmohan Kumar, General Manager-cum-Chief Engineer of the Electric Supply Area, Ranchi, sent a letter to all telecom operators in the city on Thursday. The discom observed that OFC cables are being strung haphazardly on JBVNL poles, completely bypassing safety standards. This negligence poses risks to civic infrastructure, transport, and the general public, the letter stated.
The department noted that in several locations, heavy communication equipment and accessories have been suspended on electricity poles well below the safe height level. Elaborating on the safety norms, Kumar explained that cables must maintain a minimum clearance of at least 11 feet above the ground—a rule that is routinely ignored by operators.
Strict Compliance Required
“The companies have been directed to submit the GPS location details of all poles utilised for OFC stringing, along with the number of cables strung on each pole, within 15 days. In case of failure in timely submission of the report, all OFC stringing carried out without submission of the required GPS details shall be treated as unauthorised and shall be removed without any further notice,” Kumar said.
The General Manager also highlighted the widespread lack of proper identification on existing networks. To rectify this, JBVNL has mandated that companies must securely tag their cables at every utilised infrastructure point. These tags must be durable enough to withstand rain and sunlight and must clearly display a unique serial number alongside the cable owner's name.
Previous Warnings Ignored
This strict directive follows a previous meeting held with telecom operators in September 2025, where similar notices for the removal of unauthorised cables and the proper installation of authorised ones were issued to no avail. “Some companies did tidy up cables at some spots, but cables still remain unmanaged,” Kumar said.
Process for Network Expansion
Detailing the due process for network expansion, Kumar said telecom companies wishing to utilise electricity poles must first apply with local officials. The proposal is then forwarded to the General Manager of the distribution network for final approval only after rigorous feasibility and safety tests are conducted, ensuring public safety is not compromised.
