SOMA to roll out 'mobile WiMAX' for BSNL in Guj

US-based SOMA Networks Inc., has tied up with state-run telecom operator Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) for providing mobile WiMAX products and professional services in Gujarat. The state will be the first circle in the country to witness commercial roll out of mobile WiMAX services by BSNL followed by Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra and Goa.

"Unlike the fixed WiMAX services tried out earlier, we will be assisting BSNL in rolling out mobile WiMAX services throughout Gujarat for the first time in the country. The technological tie-up will involve deployment of our equipment apart from marketing support. The commercial announcement is expected in the next 3-4 weeks," said Frank Petkovich, vice president (marketing) of SOMA Networks Inc.

Concentrating initially on Ahmedabad and other major cities of Gujarat, the services will be extended to rural areas later. "In terms of geography it would be the first such mobile WiMAX services roll out since we will cover the whole of Gujarat within a year. As far as customer premise equipment (CPEs) are concerned, the roll out will depend on density of population. Typically the coverage will be anywhere between few hundred metres and 5-8 kms," said Petkovich.

While BSNL will initially focus on enterprises, Petkovich added that the services will be later on offered to individuals as well.