Ericsson will supply 5 million 3G lines to BSNL (India)Bharat Sanchar Nigam limited had a productive discussion with labour unions, finally going ahead with its 3G network. It will be allocated with necessary spectrum soon. A spokesperson for Swedish equipment vendor Ericsson confirmed local press reports that it will supply BSNL with 5 million 3G lines.
BSNL chairman and managing director Kuldeep Goyal said that the company has placed an order with Ericsson and that rollout of the 5 million 3G lines will take place over the next six months. Goyal referred to a deal announced with Ericsson in September last year. The $1.3 billion deal covered both GSM and WCDMA/HSPA network equipment, but the 3G portion of the deal has been on hold. Goyal also quoted in various reports as saying that he is hopeful of reaching agreement with the unions over the sale of a 10% stake in BSNL, scheduled to take place in the current fiscal year to 31 March 2009. “There are positive responses,” said Goyal. The unions are discussing with the employees, they have said they will have an open mind on it,” quotes a media report. Goyal also refused to comment on the valuation of the offer, saying he would leave that job to the bankers. The telco will appoint merchant bankers to manage the sale once discussions with all stakeholders have been completed, according to a media report.
