Tech billionaire Elon Musk is expected to visit Sri Lanka next month to launch Starlink, the satellite-based internet service provided by SpaceX. This visit comes as the Sri Lankan government has fast-tracked the regulatory process to accommodate this cutting-edge technology.
The Director General of the Sri Lanka Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRC), Madushanka Dissanayake, confirmed that the preliminary approval for Starlink’s operation has already been granted. To facilitate this, the government amended the Telecommunications Regulatory Act for the first time in 28 years. This significant regulatory shift underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing the country’s digital infrastructure.
Dissanayake shared that the TRC is currently finalizing the basic template for licensing Starlink’s operations. New rules and regulations will align with the recently amended Act, ensuring a smooth and legal rollout of the service. “We have given time till the end of July to complete the task. However, we are sure that we can complete the task well ahead of time,” Dissanayake said, expressing confidence in meeting the deadlines.
Elon Musk’s visit is anticipated in August, with the launch of Starlink to follow shortly thereafter. The operationalization of the service is expected to take an additional three weeks post-launch, as necessary infrastructure, including equipment installation, is put in place.
Starlink will be operating under a service provider’s license as per the new regulatory framework. This development promises to revolutionize internet access in Sri Lanka, providing high-speed satellite internet to remote and underserved areas, thus bridging the digital divide.
