CRA sets standards for government telecom duct infrastructure

The Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) has issued the Regulation for the Standards for Government Telecom Duct Infrastructure Design and Construction, with the aim of establishing and setting common standards and requirements that fit Qatar's government telecom duct infrastructure needs and requirements. The Regulation sets technical requirements and standards related to the telecom duct infrastructure, which will be applied by all third parties involved in the planning, designing, construction, and installation of the ducts, including contractors and consultants for all the government telecom duct infrastructure projects. Ali Al Suwaidi, Technical Affairs Department Director, CRA, stated: "CRA developed the Regulation after reviewing the best practices of neighboring countries and worldwide. It is subject to amendments in line with future technological developments. Standardization contributes to developing government telecom infrastructure and, thus, supporting Qatar Second National Development Strategy 2018-2022 and Qatar National Vision 2030 goals; develop a sustainable and high-quality infrastructure that supports the national economy and is capable of keeping abreast of the latest smart technologies and creating a balance between an oil-based and a knowledge-based economy, towards the diversification of the country's economy," During the past two years, CRA tested the Standards for Government Telecom Duct Infrastructure Design and Construction by applying them to 24 projects. So far, the Telecom Service Providers have successfully implemented more than 13,000 house connections within these projects.