Unpaid bill: 4K schools in TN may lose internet

AT a time when the state government is promoting smart classrooms and hi-tech labs across state schools, more than 3,700 high and higher secondary government schools may soon lose their internet connection as they haven't been able to settle outstanding bills worth ₹1.5 crore to BSNL.

- SUBASHINI VIJAYAKUMAR

A majority of these 3,700 government schools, which account for 50% of the total 6,223 high and higher secondary schools in TN, have not paid their internet bills for the last two to three months, mainly due to lack of funds.

A school education department circular sent to chief education officers of all districts said the hi-tech labs in these 3700 schools are equipped with Fibre to the Home (FTTH) connections under the Samagra Shiksha Scheme. BSNL, in a letter from its TN Telecom Circle, had warned of service suspension if dues aren't paid by Saturday.