An arbitrator has rejected broadband technology firm Sterlite Technologies' claims worth ₹145 crore against BSNL in an optical fibre cable laying project. The dispute arose as BSNL deducted payments worth ₹145 crore for trenching Sterlite did at a depth less than 165 centimetres due to "legitimate site constraints". Sterlite is evaluating options to challenge the arbitrator's decision.