Tobago Correspondent
A fibre optic break caused by a bush fire in Toco yesterday afternoon, caused disruptions in ATM services, point of sales terminals, internet and all cellphone and cable services in Tobago.
Some businesses were unable to accept card payments due to the point-of-sales outages and as a result, had to turn away customers who did not have cash.
The island’s emergency line, 211, was also unreachable.
The outage began just before 4 pm and up to 7 pm last night, some services were still down. Guardian Media verified one affected ATM at RBC’s Carnbee location that was unable to dispense cash. Customers waiting in line reported issues with other ATMs as well.
Both bmobile and Digicel services were affected.
In an official release, Digicel said while mobile service had been swiftly restored, efforts were underway to fully restore all services as quickly as possible.
It said technical repair teams were stationed on-site, awaiting clearance from the fire services to commence re-cabling and repair works.
The Telecommunication Services of Trinidad and Tobago (TSTT) also confirmed disruptions in its services.
In a release, the company said, “TSTT advises that the company is investigating a fibre break that is impacting landline, internet and mobile services to customers in Tobago and North East Trinidad, from Matura to Matelot.
“Our technicians have already been dispatched and every effort is being made to restore these services in the shortest time possible. TSTT regrets the inconvenience caused and will continue to provide updates on service restoration.”