While Sentech is in the process of rolling out its MyWireless broadband Internet service in the major metropolitan areas of SA, it is doing so according to strict environmental policies.
"Sentech acts responsibly by conducting environmental impact assessment studies, to ensure that there is no negative impact on the environment before the company begins deploying new transmitters," says Pragasen Nagan, GM for marketing and sales services.
He says that because the technology that makes the service possible is delivered via a high-powered radio signal, it is necessary for the organisation to use high-site transmitters.
"As the name suggests, these are placed at high points, but despite this need, minimal environmental disturbance to the city skyline remains a key factor in where we place our transmitters," says Nagan.
He says Sentech Tower in Brixton is the most prominent and visible example of a high-site, but that deep inside the cityscape, coverage can be boosted by setting up additional high-site transmitters on the tops of buildings.
"We negotiate responsibly with the owners of buildings in built-up areas and always adhere to environmental legislation.
"Obviously we base decisions on technical criteria and look for sites where these signals would be reasonably unobstructed. However, aesthetics and the wishes of local people are also important, so we engage in a full, consultative process at every prospective site. It may impose a delay, but it is the responsible thing to do."
He says the roll-out is being done in a phased approach and the following areas can already receive the MyWireless service:
In Johannesburg: Honeydew, Helderkruin, Northcliff, Brixton, Fourways, parts of Randburg, Hurleyvale, Killarney, Malboro, Linksfield, Strydom Park, Horizon View, Bedfordview and Hyde Park.
In Pretoria: Sunnyside, Pretoria Central, Kilner Park, La Montagne and Menlo Park; and in Durban: Sea Cow Lake, The Bluff, Durban North, Sunningdale, Malpark, Chartwell and Saratoga.
Sentech is continuing its service roll-out and expects to begin rolling out services in Cape Town this month, followed by Bloemfontein and certain more outlying areas in April.
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