DIGICEL Jamaica and Jamaica North-South Highway Company (JNSHC) have entered an underground duct sharing agreement that should provide a significant leap in strengthening Jamaica’s telecoms infrastructure.

This partnership is expected to accelerate Digicel’s transition to an underground fibre network, improving network resilience, reliability, and service delivery in the wake of Hurricane Melissa.

In a media release Digicel said the underground duct sharing agreement represents a coordinated, multi-stakeholder approach that significantly reduces deployment timelines and strengthens the resilience of Jamaica’s telecommunications network against future climate-related events.

According to Digicel, by leveraging JNSHC’s existing roadway infrastructure, it will be able to install and protect its fibre routes faster, more efficiently, and with reduced environmental impact.

Hurricane Melissa caused widespread disruption to the above-ground network assets across the island, underscoring the need for robust, future-proof infrastructure.

The company said by transitioning critical fibre routes underground, it is reinforcing its commitment to delivering reliability, business continuity, and digital accessibility for customers nationwide.

“Hurricane Melissa reaffirmed the urgent need for Jamaica’s telecoms infrastructure to evolve,” said Stephen Murad, CEO, Digicel Jamaica.

“This agreement represents a bold step toward ensuring that Jamaicans have the strong, stable, climate-smart network they deserve, and strengthens our ability to keep Jamaica connected when it matters most,” added Murad.

In the meantime, JNSHC Managing Director Daojun Huang endorsed the agreement as a model for public-private partnerships.

“We are proud to partner with Digicel on an initiative that aligns with our mission to build and maintain the highest quality infrastructure,” said Huang.

“The Jamaica North-South Highway is uniquely positioned to support the safe, efficient deployment of critical utilities and this demonstrates how shared infrastructure can deliver long-term national benefits and create a more resilient Jamaica,” added Huang.

The initiative aligns with the Government of Jamaica’s broader push for climate-resilient infrastructure and reduced environmental disruption.

The shared-duct model minimises repeated roadworks and accelerates the roll-out of high-capacity fibre links to business districts, communities, and critical national facilities.

Digicel and JNSHC will commence phased construction immediately, prioritising high-demand corridors and vulnerable network routes.