Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) plans to provide 0.36 million new mobile connections in Ernakulam secondary switching areas (SSA) in 2014. In addition, the operator plans to commission 372 3G towers to strengthen its network coverage in the region.
At present, the operator has 1.45 million mobile connections in Ernakulam SSA, which covers regions including Ernakulam, Idukki and the Lakshadweep Islands. In 2013, BSNL added about 0.22 million new connections in Ernakulam SSA. Further, the operator commissioned about 52 (2G) and 45 (3G) towers in 2013 to extend its 2G and 3G coverage in the region.
Going forward, in 2014, the operator aims to provide 32,000 new landline connections and 53,000 broadband connections. In addition, BSNL is also targeting to provide 7,500 Wi-Max and 4,000 fibre-to-the-home connections in Ernakulam SSA. In fact, to further enhance network coverage in Ernakulam SSA, the operator plans to commission 79 2G towers in 2014.
Further, with an aim to increase broadband usage in rural areas, BSNL established village broadband kiosks in 2013 covering areas such as Kalady, Kolenchery, Mulanthuruthy, Njarakkal, Agatti, Kiltan and Kadamath among others. Under the central government aided project, the operator offers users internet access for Rs 5 per hour. As part of the project, BSNL plans to provide one week?s training to about 1,200 engineering students in 2014 as against 1,000 students last year.
