Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) has discontinued its RTDF-funded broadband project, bringing an end to its initiative aimed at providing free internet connectivity to schools, health institutions, and local government offices.
Launched in 2077 (Nepali calendar), the project initially focused on delivering fiber connectivity to eight earthquake-affected districts, including Kavrepalanchowk, Sindhupalchowk, and Dolakha. It also aimed to expand internet access to community schools across 66 additional districts, offering free connectivity for up to two years.
NTA had signed agreements with 73 out of 76 local levels in the targeted districts and utilized funds from the Rural Telecommunications Development Fund (RTDF), which is financed through contributions from telecom operators.
However, the authority has now halted further expansion of the project and is exploring a new implementation model. According to NTA, memorandums of understanding (MoUs) where service providers had not been selected or work had not commenced have been automatically cancelled. Local authorities have been instructed not to proceed under the previous agreements.
For projects that have already been completed or where service providers were selected before the cutoff date, NTA has directed local bodies to submit payment claims within 15 days along with the required documentation.
The decision signals a shift in Nepal’s approach to expanding broadband access, as regulators reassess how to deploy connectivity funds more effectively while continuing efforts to bridge the digital divide.
