BSNL Adopting Multi-Fold Strategy to Close 5G Gap with Private Telcos: Report

BSNL Adopting Multi-Fold Strategy to Close 5G Gap with Airtel, Jio, and Vodafone Idea
Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has placed an order for an additional 19,000 4G sites, with seamless software upgrade capability to 5G, as part of its “multi-fold strategy” to simultaneously expand 4G coverage and launch commercial 5G services. This follows the successful commissioning of approximately 90,000 4G sites nationwide, according to the Chairman and Managing Director of BSNL.

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Also Read: BSNL Targets September Rollout for 5G in Delhi, Key Cities

BSNL 4G Expansion and 5G-Ready Capabilities

“BSNL has placed an order for an additional 19,000 sites to densify its 4G footprint, with seamless software upgrade capability to 5G. This follows the successful commissioning of around 90,000 4G sites,” A Robert Ravi, Chairman and Managing Director, BSNL told ETTelecom.

The densification initiative is being implemented through a Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)-led consortium, which also includes Tejas Networks and the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DoT). In May, BSNL awarded TCS a Rs 2,903.22 crore contract for 18,685 supplementary 4G sites to enhance network coverage across rural and urban India.

Also Read: BSNL Eyes Subscriber Growth with Competitive Tariffs and Free 5G Services

Standalone 5G Core Powers Advanced Services

BSNL is leveraging a Standalone (SA) 5G core for its rollout, which will support advanced features such as network slicing, industrial IoT, and mission-critical services. The service has already been demonstrated in Hyderabad and utilizes both the 700 MHz and 3.3 GHz spectrum bands for optimal rural reach and urban capacity.

“Our 5G Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) model has already been awarded in Delhi, with similar pilots ongoing in Mumbai and other major metros,” Ravi reportedly said. In addition to existing network upgradation to 5G technology, the 5G NaaS uses homegrown technology.