Uzbektelecom copper-to-fibre replacement continues apace

State-backed Uzbektelecom has reported rapid progress in implementing network modernisation projects, as it continues to replace copper communication lines with fibre-optic infrastructure in regions across Uzbekistan, including in remote areas. In the first half of 2021 the telco’s fibre rollout covered around 700,000 homes in Samarkand region (including in the city of Samarkand, regional cities Kimyogar, Farhod, Khishrav, Kattakurgan and Ingichka and 1,259 rural settlements) as well as another roughly 700,000 homes in Fergana region (including in the city of Fergana, regional cities Margilan, Kokand and Quvasoy and 551 rural settlements). Recently, fibre-optic cables were also installed covering 33,000 homes in Andijan region and 35,000 homes in Bukhara region. Uzbektelecom is also conducting special campaigns including free provision of subscriber devices to encourage the transition to new technologies for rural dwellers.