Submarine telecommunication cables carry about 99% of global internet traffic, enabling essential services and seamless connectivity. By 2024, over 500 active and planned submarine cable systems are operational, handling massive data transmission with remarkable efficiency. However, these cables are highly vulnerable, with 150–200 faults reported globally each year due to fishing, anchoring, natural hazards, and equipment failures.
Role and Challenges
To bolster the resilience of these critical infrastructures, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the International Cable Protection Committee (ICPC) have established the International Advisory Body for Submarine Cable Resilience. This 40-member body will guide efforts to address challenges like rising traffic demands, aging infrastructure, and environmental threats.
India’s Strategic Role
India is a vital player in the submarine cable network, with 17 international subsea cables connecting via 14 landing stations in key cities like Mumbai, Chennai, Cochin, Tuticorin, and Trivandrum.
- As of 2022, these cables have a total lit capacity of 138.606 Tbps and an activated capacity of 111.111 Tbps.
- Major contributors include Tata Communications, Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, Sify Technologies, and BSNL, all playing significant roles in global connectivity.
Growing Vulnerabilities
In 2023, over 200 cable repairs were necessitated by environmental hazards, aging systems, and regulatory complexities. Damage to these cables can disrupt global internet services, leading to economic and security consequences.
Enhancing Resilience
Modern submarine cables feature robust protective layers and optimised fiber cores to transmit high-speed data over long distances. Despite this, deployment timelines stretch beyond two years due to funding, permitting, and environmental considerations.
The ITU’s advisory body focuses on:
- Strengthening maintenance strategies
- Preventing cable damage
- Ensuring rapid recovery post-disruption
- Promoting sustainable practices
These efforts aim to secure submarine cable infrastructure for a resilient and sustainable future in global communications.
