Idea strengthens data footprint with its own 3G network rollout in Kolkata

Idea Cellular, one of the largest telecom operators in the country, has announced the launch of its own 3G services in Kolkata metro on 2100 MHz spectrum band that was acquired through auction earlier this year.

Idea is committed to provide superior customer experience on both voice and data services and has started rolling out its own 3G network, in a phased manner, while continuing to offer 3G ICR, to give its customers a seamless and superior mobile broadband experience.

As committed at the beginning of the financial year, Idea managed to launch its own 3G services in Kolkata, within a short duration of spectrum allocation.

With this, Idea's 3G network has expanded to 13 major markets in India, covering 79 percent of Idea's revenue and 60 percent of industry revenue. Additionally, Idea offers 3G services through ICR arrangements with other telecom operators in nine circles, providing its users seamless connectivity pan-India (except Orissa).

According to Lakshminarayana, COO, Idea Cellular said, "Idea's continuous investment in spectrum acquisition, network infrastructure, and brand building in the eastern market is a testimony to our commitment to the region."

"With the launch of 3G services in Kolkata, it has now become the 2nd metro after Delhi where Idea has set up its own 3G network. I am confident that this will drive data usage amongst our existing users and further strengthen brand pull resulting in more customers opting for our superior network," said Lakshminarayana.

Idea 3G users will now experience ease of service while accessing content like mobile TV, video on demand, music downloads, online gaming, amongst many others.

Idea has significantly bolstered its infrastructure in the state over the last few years. By the end of FY16, it will have a network of 7400 2G cell sites in the state, in addition to 1300 3G sites in Kolkata metro. The company has also increased the number of Idea service centre's in the state to more than 250. With its focus on providing a world-class customer experience, Idea Cellular continues to expand and grow its presence in the state.