DOCOMO PACIFIC says it has helped complete the marine surveys for the ATISA submarine cable system (see "DOCOMO PACIFIC chooses NEC for ATISA submarine cable network"). The surveys reviewed the undersea path leading to the cable landing sites on Guam, Saipan, Rota, and Tinian, which is part of the route selection process.
That selection process is a team effort involving representatives from NEC Corp.; Duenas, Camacho and Associates (DCA); and DOCOMO PACIFIC. Permitting and completion of an environmental impact study are the next phases of the undersea cable project, DOCOMO PACIFIC notes.
"Our three-part marine survey works to ensure that the laying of the fiber-optic cable will minimize disturbance of the undersea environment to the greatest extent possible," noted Liezl Balan, DOCOMO PACIFIC's project manager for ATISA. "This would not be possible without local, federal, and environmental agency assistance."
UK-based Titan Environmental Surveys, Ltd., a division of Gardline Marine Sciences, Ltd., conducted the inshore and deep water survey.
The project team selected the proposed landing sites and associated fiber cable routes on each island based on environmental regulations and logistical requirements, the company says. Inshore and offshore pre-surveys finished in late June; a closer route inspection followed in early July by independent professional divers.
"Getting in the water is a critical milestone for Project ATISA. We are eager to share our progress with the community because this is another step on the path towards improved economic and social opportunities for the people of the CNMI [Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands]. Through the great team effort of our partners, NEC and DCA, as well as our DOCOMO PACIFIC associates, Project ATISA remains on schedule for a mid-2017 launch," said Jonathan Kriegel, president and CEO of DOCOMO PACIFIC.
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