Goa, Nov. 15 -- The Electricity Department of Goa, led by Executive Engineer Kashinath Shetye, recently intensified a cable-cutting drive in St Cruz, focusing on removal of internet service-provider cables illegally strung on department poles. The effort targets long-pending unpaid dues owed by various ISPs. The crackdown followed a complaint from a parent whose son suffered a leg injury after coming into contact with dangerously hanging cables.

The department has cut cables from numerous poles, citing safety hazards and violation of regulations requiring prior permission and payment for using electricity poles. This action is part of a broader conflict between ISPs and the Electricity Department over right-of-way fees and compliance wit...