Negligent contractors caused internet outage in Jurong

Around 3,800 subscribers were affected.

The internet outage in Jurong in the past month was, as it turned out, caused by a cable cut, affecting around 3,800 subscribers.

Speaking before the parliament, Minister for Communications and Information Yaacob Ibrahim said the incident that happened on April 11 was caused by construction works being done involving an HDB project in the Jurong area.

"Investigations into past cable cut incidents revealed that most incidents occurred because contractors did not follow established standard operating procedures (SOPs). These contractors were also not careful and failed to exercise due diligence when undertaking earthworks," Ibrahim explained.

The minister noted that the Info-communications Media Development Authority has been carrying out regular dialogue sessions with relevant government agencies and their contractors on preventive measures. IMDA has also circulated Dos and Don’ts in multiple languages at worksites to alert workers on the need to exercise due care and caution when carrying out earthworks.

"Cable cut incidents impose significant costs on operators, consumers, and businesses. I am told that the telcos’ repair costs alone can sometimes exceed half a million dollars. These costs exclude those incurred by consumers and businesses. IMDA will continue to work closely with all parties involved to ensure that the number of such cable cut incidents is minimised," he reassured.