Birla At & T, Bpl In Dilemma Over Connectivity Policy

Though some of their cell sites are ready to conduct business, the firms have not yet received required clearance and certifications.

The Sukh Ram episode is said to have stalled the purchases of the connectivity equipment by the department of technology.

This is essential for connecting the cell sites to its basis telephone subscribers.

Birla AT&T Communications took the lead over BPL US West in Pune to set up the cell sites and conducted the first test call early this month.

The company is investing Rs 500 crore in the next 3 months to set up 120 cell sites and three master computerised switching centers.

 

"Over the next 10 years, the company plans to invest $1.5 billion, covering Maharashtra (except Mumbai), Gujarat and Goa.

Once completed we will have the largest number of cell sites with the widest coverage from Gandhinagar in Gujarat to Thane district and Goa," said Craig Vachan, vice president, sales and marketing of Birla AT&T Communications.

Birla AT&T Communications has earmarked a whopping Rs 30 crore for promotion and publicity so far. The Pune-based Pratibha Advertising of the Kirloskar group has bagged this assignment.

BPL US West on the other hand is still hesitant on its launch. But its competitor does not underestimate them.

"What matters is the service and not who starts first. Our focus is on giving service which is of international class," Vachon added. BPL US West officials said they plan to offer competitive packages to the subscribers.

The subscriber billings of BPL US West and Birla AT&T Communications are the same, except for initial offerings.

In a move to attract subscribers, BPL US West is offering an initial cap of Rs 2,000 permonth on billing which is valid up to December end.

Both the American firms hold 49 per cent equity each in their Indian ventures.

The balance equity of 51 per cent goes to their Indian counterparts.cs/bottom.inc"-->