Vast majority of BSNL’s current customer base are connected to the carrier’s 2G network.
Indian state-owned mobile network operator Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited announced plans to replace approximately 28,000 legacy 2G base stations with new 3G/4G-compatible equipment, Indian press reported. According to BSNL Chairman Anupam Shrivastava the rollout is expected to be completed by the end of March 2018.
Nokia and ZTE are in the lead for the project, reportedly submitting the lowest and second-lowest financial bids, respectively. However, Shrivastava said the evaluation process is ongoing and the equipment suppliers are expected to be selected next month.
The lowest bidder is set to win the contract for the “West” and “South” network zones, while the second-lowest bidder will be offered the “North” and “East” zones.
The transition could be a bit tricky for BSNL’s operations as 85% of its customer base were on 2G connections at the end of last year.
Taiwan to offer additional spectrum for 4G services
Taiwan’s National Communications Commission said it plans to award 150 megahertz of 4G spectrum across four frequency bands, Asian press reported. NCC plans to award spectrum in the 1900 MHz and 2.1 GHz bands, which are currently used to support 3G services by existing operators.
The regulator said the auctions are scheduled to be completed by the end of this year. NCC also plans to offer additional spectrum in the 1700 MHz, 1800 MHz, 1900 MHz and 2.1 GHz bands.
