Providers of last-mile internet access to be decided today
Eight entrepreneurs have submitted proposals to operate telecommunication businesses as part of the Pracharat free internet project , and Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (MDES) is now considering which will be granted a licence.
MDES created its open access system for network connection through https://mdes-oa.netpracharat.com, after receiving cabinet approval on June 25. The project aims to provide last-mile access service in targeted rural areas, such as private residences and business venues. However, the service was delayed as the government failed to find a private organization to participate.
MDES minister Puttipong Punnakanta said that the Prime Minister had assigned him the task of monitoring and managing the problem. “The government was not happy that the programme remained in limbo,” he said.
The aim of the project is reduce digital inequality. TOT Plc installed FTTx fiber cables along with Wi-Fi points to service those living in the target areas at no cost to residents. Last-mile access service will probably be charged at Bt200-300 per month.