Technology Desk: There is going to be a big change in the Indian telecom sector. The country's leading private telecom company Vodafone Idea (Vi) and government telecom company BSNL have decided to extend their network infrastructure sharing agreement. Now both the companies will be able to use each other's network and infrastructure.
Till now there was a network sharing arrangement between BSNL and Vi in limited areas. Now preparations are on to extend it to all the telecom circles of the country. This can increase the network reach of both the companies and customers are expected to get better connectivity in many areas.
Will benefit from each other's network
Under this arrangement, where BSNL's network is weak, its customers will be able to use Vi's network. Similarly, Vi customers will also be able to take advantage of BSNL's network in those areas where Vi coverage is less. With network sharing, both the companies will also be able to make better use of their telecom infrastructure. This can help in reducing the expenditure on installation of new towers and network expansion.
Now expanding from limited areas to the entire country
BSNL and Vi were already using each other's networks in some select areas. Now preparations are on to implement this partnership on a larger scale. If this system is implemented in all telecom circles, then there can be a huge expansion in the network coverage of both the companies. This can be especially beneficial in rural and remote areas where the network of any one company is weak.
Why is this step important in the telecom sector?
Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel have a strong dominance in the Indian telecom market. In such a situation, BSNL and Vi using each other's network is being considered an important step for both the companies.
Both companies are trying to increase network capacity by making better use of their existing resources. This can provide customers with more network options and better connectivity. However, no clear information has been revealed yet about whether recharge plans will be cheaper due to this network sharing or not.
