Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 06 October 2023
The Department of Telecommunications, Ministry of Communications, Government of India, has taken a significant step towards ensuring the safety and efficiency of excavation activities by launching the “Call Before u Dig (CBuD)” mobile application. This innovative app aims to address the frequent damage to existing underground infrastructure, such as Optical Fiber Cables, Water pipelines, Electric Cables, and sewerage pipelines, caused by excavation projects carried out by various agencies.
Excavation activities in public spaces have often led to economic losses, inconvenience to citizens, and business disruptions for utility asset owners and other stakeholders. To tackle this critical issue, the CBuD app provides a platform for excavator agencies and contractors to notify owners of existing utility assets about their upcoming excavation routes. This proactive approach will enable utility owners to assist excavating agencies in identifying existing infrastructure routes, thus preventing damage.
The mobile app “Call Before u Dig (CBuD)” was officially inaugurated by the Honourable Prime Minister of India on March 22, 2023, underscoring the government’s commitment to infrastructure safety and efficiency. In light of this development, all excavators and utility agencies operating in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are strongly advised to register their excavation inquiries on the CBuD application before commencing any digging activities.
It’s crucial to note that this registration is mandatory, and failure to comply with these instructions will be considered a violation of the Indian Telegraph-Infrastructure Safety Rules, 2022. Violators may face penal charges in accordance with established rules and regulations.
The Department of Telecom further encourages individuals and agencies to report any instances of excavation activities that have not been registered in the CBuD application. Such information can be brought to the attention of the Office of DDG, DoT, A&N West Bengal LSA, Port Blair.
The launch of the “Call Before u Dig (CBuD)” mobile app marks a significant milestone in promoting responsible and safe excavation practices, ultimately contributing to the protection of vital underground infrastructure and the well-being of citizens and businesses alike.