Global dialog is done with the help of submarine telecommunication cable, with it’s help 99 percent of internet traffic and many essential services are operated. Submarine telecom simply means that wires are laid in the sea water, due to which countries all over the world remain connected. By 2024,500 active and planned submarine cable systems are in operation. Though, the cable also gets damaged. Malfunctions occur 150-200 times globally every year.
cable gets damaged
Fishing, anchoring, natural hazards and equipment failure are also responsible for cable failure. Now work is being done to avoid all these things. International Cable Protection Committee (ICPC) and International Telecommunication Union (ITU) have started joint operation. Together they have started the international Advisory Body. Its job is to deal with such threats.
India has 14 landing stations
India plays an vital role in the global cable network. India has 17 international subsea cables spread between 14 landing stations.Landing stations in India are present in Mumbai, Chennai, Kochi, Tuticorin and Trivandrum.
Ther is danger from sharks too
These wires are in great danger because they are controlled from under the sea. A few years ago, shark-proof viral wrappers were introduced. Because earlier they were also in danger from sharks. Excessive activity in the depths of the sea also poses a threat to them. That means you suffer a lot of loss due to this. With its help, connectivity is also being speeded up.
How do submarine cables impact international trade and communication?
Interview with Dr. Samantha Verity,Submarine Cable Expert
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Verity. With over 500 active and planned submarine cable systems by 2024, can you explain the significance of these cables in global connectivity?
Dr.Samantha Verity: Thank you for having me. Submarine telecommunications cables are crucial as they carry around 99 percent of global internet traffic and underpin many essential services. They are the backbone of international communication, enabling countries to stay connected and facilitating everything from social media to financial transactions.
Time.news Editor: That’s notable. However, I’ve read that these cables face notable risks, with malfunctions occurring 150-200 times globally each year. What are the main causes of these damages?
Dr.Samantha Verity: Indeed, disruptions are common. The primary culprits include fishing activities, anchoring ships, natural hazards, and equipment failures. Each of these can affect the cables laid beneath the ocean surface, causing disruptions to internet services and communications.
Time.news Editor: To combat these threats, we’ve seen initiatives from organizations like the International Cable Protection Committee (ICPC) and the International telecommunication Union (ITU). Can you elaborate on their role?
Dr. Samantha Verity: Certainly. Both organizations have established a joint international Advisory Body focused on addressing threats to submarine cables. Their work involves developing protocols and strategies to protect these vital infrastructures, enhancing monitoring systems, and promoting awareness about the cable systems’ vulnerabilities.
Time.news Editor: Now, turning our gaze to India, which has 17 international subsea cables and 14 landing stations. How does India contribute to the global cable network?
Dr. Samantha Verity: India plays a pivotal role in global connectivity through its extensive submarine cable network.The landing stations in cities like Mumbai, Chennai, kochi, Tuticorin, and Trivandrum act as critical points for international connections.This infrastructure not only enhances India’s digital economy but also secures its standing as a significant player in the global telecommunications landscape.
Time.news Editor: Interestingly, you’ve mentioned that submarine cables are also vulnerable to sharks. Can you explain how that works and what measures are in place to protect them?
Dr. Samantha Verity: Yes, it sounds surprising, but sharks have been known to damage cables, leading to costly repairs. To mitigate this, engineers have developed shark-proof protective layers for the cables.Additionally, minimizing excessive human activity in the seas also helps in reducing potential damage.
time.news Editor: that’s quite a threat! With all this data, what practical advice would you offer to industries that heavily rely on submarine cables for their operations?
Dr. Samantha verity: industries should ensure they are aware of the vulnerabilities of submarine cables and invest in redundant systems to safeguard their operations. Establishing strong partnerships with cable operators and supporting protective measures like those enforced by ICPC and ITU can also enhance their resilience against disruptions. It’s crucial to stay informed about the state of these systems to anticipate and mitigate risks effectively.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Verity, for such enlightening insights. It’s clear that while submarine cables are essential for connectivity,there are numerous factors that need consideration to ensure their operational integrity.
Dr. Samantha Verity: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this important topic. The future of global connectivity relies on our proactive approach to safeguarding these undersea networks.