State-run telecom operator Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has finally launched its long-awaited 4G services in Amritsar, Punjab, marking the beginning of the beta phase. As part of this launch, BSNL will distribute prepaid SIMs to gather feedback on the network quality from users.
BSNL completed the successful Proof of Concept (PoC) of the Indian 4G stack equipment across 200 live 4G network sites in Firzozepur, Pathankot, and Amritsar cities of Punjab. The official statement from BSNL mentioned that the beta launch of its 4G services took place in Amritsar on July 15, with PK Purwar, CMD, BSNL, and other dignitaries in attendance.
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Purwar expressed his confidence that the large-scale deployment of the indigenous 4G telecom stack will enable BSNL to regain a substantial market share and restore its former glory. Sandeep Govil, Director (Consumer Mobility) at BSNL, revealed that the telecom company has already placed purchase orders with TCS and ITI Limited for 1 lakh 4G sites across India.
BSNL plans to deploy these sites not only in major cities like Delhi and Mumbai but also in Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) areas, remote and rural regions, and unconnected areas. The telecom operator has high expectations for its 4G services, anticipating a 20% increase in revenue following the widespread availability of 4G services throughout the country.
BSNL's 4G is going to be vital for the Indian telecom sector. It can add more fire to the competition and balance the scale of subscribers that are flocking towards Jio and Airtel. But one thing that BSNL will have to ensure is that the customers get a great experience. Since this is the beta stage, the company will be collecting feedback and would launch it in more places in the coming weeks and months.
