The Kerala Fibre Optic Network (KFON), in its second phase, will generate revenue from its network by leasing out its unused fibres. About 22 of a total of 48 fibres will be used for the network's own operations, the first phase of which will become a reality by June end with 14,000 Below Poverty Line (BPL) families being provided free internet. Close to 30,000 government institutions, including offices, educational institutions and hospitals, will also get connectivity in the first phase.
“In the second phase, monetisation of the network will happen. The leased lines and dark fibres, the fibres which are remaining unused, will become the main income sources. We have a total of 48 fibres, out of which KFON will be using 22. The Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) will also be using some. The rest can be leased out,” Santhosh Babu, Managing Director, K-FON told The Hindu.
As part of the implementation of the first phase, the Kerala State IT Infrastructure Limited (KSITL) has called for Expression of Interest (EoI) from local Internet service providers to provide connections through the KFON’s wide network. According to KFON officials, local operators, especially the companies providing cable and Internet services, are some of the targets. The process is expected to be completed this month with Internet reaching households and offices by the end of June. A total of 100 BPL families in each of the State’s 140 Assembly constituencies will be identified in the first phase through the local bodies to provide the free Internet connection.
