New Delhi, Nov. 6 -- State-owned BSNL plans to sign an inter-circle roaming agreement with debt-ridden Vodafone Idea in 12-13 circles, a government source aware of the development said.
The pact will mutually benefit both companies by providing access to mobile signal to their respective customers where their network is weak.
"BSNL is doing ICR (inter-circle roaming) arrangements with VIL. It has already 2-3 circles and is planning to add another 12-13 circles," the source said.
While BSNL is a public sector unit, the government is the single biggest shareholder in Vodafone Idea.
The source said that BSNL is ramping up its 4G network.
"Approval has been given to BSNL to install 26,000 new 4G mobile towers," the source said.
Fresh towers are in addition to 1 lakh 4G towers already installed by BSNL.
Vi, on the other hand, is trying to raise debt to support its Rs 45,000 capital expenditure.
The company has already raised Rs 6,400 crore as the first tranche of funds, including Rs 1,183 crore from warrants and debt proceeds, through ECB and Indian
private banks.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.