As putting up fibre optical cable connectivity is an expensive proposition, both, the TN government and WorldTel, have been exploring least-cost technologies for providing faster internet access. This is one of the reasons why WorldTel made the proposal to TNEB for non-exclusive use of the board's transmission towers and electric poles. Other ISPs could also use TNEB facilities for putting up fibre optical cable connections in the state.More importantly, the use of TNEB towers and electricity poles will limit the cost for WorldTel as the connectivity can be established without digging up roads and land.

WorldTel, it seems, hasexpressed its intentions to the TN government to use international technology and standards at costs comparable with or even less than those prevalent in the US. The Department of Telecommunication (DoT) rates for leased lines are said to be 10 times higher than US rates. DoT's charges for leased line of 1 MB kbps are Rs 20 lakh and Rs 34 lakh for 2 MB kbps.

For the wireless in local loop technology, WorldTel is reported to have tied up with the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras. Another option is to meet the bulk of its required capacity from dedicated leased circuits of the Railways. Apparently, the Railways has made a proposal to the TN government offering the use of its dedicated leased fibre optical cable links for specific circuits.

Meanwhile, IT circles are also keenly watching the emerging scenario on fibre optical cable connectivity as outlined by the Centre. The PowerGrid Corporation has proposed a national information infrastructure by setting up a series of joint ventures with stateelectricity boards for providing inter-state connectivity.