RCom, Aircel tie up to improve 2G GSM network

RCom in talks with other operators also to have similar arrangements and add around 10,000 base stations in its network

Telecom operator Reliance Communications today announced a roaming agreement with Aircel, under which both the companies will use each others' mobile towers to improve network coverage for 2G GSM services.

RCom is in talks with other operators as well to have similar arrangements and add total of around 10,000 base stations (mobile towers) in its network, it said in a statement.

"We are already in advanced stages of talks with several operators across the country to put these agreements in place, and are delighted to announce the first of many such alliances today—a pan-India 2G GSM ICR agreement with Aircel," said RCom President and Chief Executive Officer (Wireless) Gurdeep Singh.

The company said that it expects that all agreements with existing telecom operators are likely to be completed by the end of the second quarter of the current financial year.

"The telecom industry is at a stage where players are faced with high operational costs—be it energy, infrastructure, sales or distribution.

"Given this dynamic nature of the industry, it is inevitable for operators to consider such arrangements with each other to offer continued and seamless mobile services to customers," Aircel Chief Operating Officer Kaizad Heerjee said.

RCom and Aircel officials clarified that Aircel will also get to utilise RCom's base station under the arrangement.

RCom said that the 2G GSM Intra-circle roaming arrangements with various other operators will "significantly improve both outdoor and in-building coverage", of company's mobile network.

"The 2G GSM ICR (intra-circle roaming) arrangements with various other operators will see a fast-paced expansion of RCom's GSM network footprint at no extra cost, optimise Capex and Opex spends and allow the company's customers a seamless roaming experience on partner networks," the statement said.