Bhubaneswar Smart City Limited (BSCL) has decided to lease out its unused optical fibre network to licensed telecom and internet service providers. BSCL has floated a tender to lease out 480 kilometres of its citywide fibre network that is currently lying idle. The aim is to generate a steady revenue stream for the smart city company while supporting the expansion of telecom and broadband services in the city.
The fibre network was originally laid as part of the Smart City Mission to meet the city’s connectivity needs. The leasing model envisages short-term contracts with the option of renewal, allowing BSCL to earn regular lease rentals without transferring ownership of the asset.
Further, the tender is open to licensed telecom operators and internet service providers with a proven track record. Selection will be done through a competitive bidding process, with the highest bidder offered priority access to the leased network.
