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Docomo Pacific: 100-pct restoration by March
More than half a year after Typhoon Soudeor cut down cable network connections on Saipan, Docomo Pacific said it targets full restoration of their services by next month.
In a response to Saipan Tribune inquiries, Docomo sent out a press release saying it is targeting March 10 as it continues to work for a 100-percent full restoration of its services.
“Restoration progress on Saipan stands at 53 percent and 100 percent for Tinian in terms of reconnected subscribers,” Docomo Pacific manager of technical operations for CNMI Jaynard White said.
According to Docomo, they are pleased with the current restoration rate, noting that much of the challenge has been receiving materials necessary for the repairs.
To date, Docomo crews have completed cable restoration in Garapan, Oleai, Chalan Kiya, Susupie, Chalan Kanoa, Afetna, San Antonio, Koblerville, Aslito, San Vicente, Dandan, Papago, Kagman 1, Navy Hill, Gualo Rai, Finasisu, and parts of Asteo and Kagman 2.
For their next restoration work, they will work on Kagman 2, Kagman 3, Asteo, Capitol Hill/Talofofo, Puerto Rico/Lower Base, Sadog Tasi, Tanapag, San Roque, As Matuis, and Marpi.
Docomo said their engineers and field crews are in the process of restoring electronic equipment and main distribution lines that sustained severe damage during Typhoon Soudelor. Approximately 75 full-time, part-time, and temporary employees have been allocated towards these efforts.
Aside from labor costs, Docomo has already invested “several million dollars” in extensive repairs including restoring electronic equipment, repair of main distribution lines as well as long-term investments in their network infrastructure.
On a positive note, Docomo said Typhoon Soudelor provided them the opportunity to convert Saipan’s video content to be fed via live stream from Guam.
It also prompted upgrades to their network infrastructure, resulting in the installation of 28 miles of underground fiber optics.
Because of the intermittent services, Docomo said their customers continue to receive credit adjustments.
Customers without service in the restored areas are urged to contact their Customer Care department at 483-CARE (2273).
