Digital Highways

Why in news? NHAI is working towards development of around 10,000 km of Optic Fibre Cables (OFC) infrastructure across the country by FY2024-25.

About Digital Highways:

• Digital Highways or Roads are digital platforms that offer shared public and private services.
• They utilize data, technology, and connectivity to improve the Strategic Road Network (SRN) in terms of design, construction, operation, and usage.
• This will result in safer travel, quicker deliveries, and better experiences for all.

Optic Fibre Cables (OFC):

• Fiber-optic cables are like tubes that hold tiny wires made of glass or plastic.
• They use light to send information much faster than regular wires that use electricity.
• Metal wires are preferred for transmission in optical fibre communication as signals travel with less damage.

• The optical fiber works on the principle of total internal reflection (TIR).
  • TIR is the complete reflection of a ray of light within a medium such as water or glass from the surrounding surfaces back into the medium.
• OFC network will allow direct plug-and-play or ‘Fibre-on-demand’ model for the Telecom / Internet Services.
• The network will be leased out on a Fixed Price Allotment mechanism on ‘Open for All’ basis through a web portal to eligible users.

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetailm.aspx?PRID=1917876