ZCZC
BSS-17
TELETALK-NETWORK
Teletalk’s solar-based network in remote areas for 4G
DHAKA, Aug 4, 2018 (BSS) – State-owned mobile phone operator Teletalk plans to install
over 400 solar power-based Base Transceiver Stations (BTSs) in hard-to-reach areas to
facilitate modern telecommunication, especially 3G and 4G services to the inhabitants of
those areas.
To this end, a development project is now in the Planning Commission awaiting for final
approval of the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC), said
officials.
Talking to BSS, a high official of Teletalk today said they have initiated the process
so the people of hard-to-reach areas get opportunity to enjoy mobile broadband internet.
He revealed that they have planned to install over 400 Node B for expanding 3G and 4G
network in country’s far-flung areas including the Sundarbans, haors, forests, islands and
parts of Chittagong Hill Tracts.
Officials said the project dubbed as “Establishment of Solar Based Base stations in
Hard-to-Reach Areas for strengthening Teletalk Network Coverage” has been approved by the
planning commission with a cost of Taka 406 crore, of which Taka 240 crore would be
sourced as project assistance.
According to officials, Teletalk initially proposed to run the project at a cost of
Taka 180 crore under Indian line of credit in January, 2017. Later, the cost was revised
at Taka 406 crore to cover more areas under the project.
Teletalk has planned to complete this network expansion project by August 2020 upon
getting approval by the ECNEC.
Currently, Teletalk is implementing two projects to expand its 3G network across the
country, although the work of the expansion is running slowly for fund disbursement
difficulties.
Meanwhile, all the private operators have started to offer 4G services immediately
after handing over license by the government. But, the state-own operator is yet to offer
4G due to network up-gradation.
BSS/SPL/MAK/QC/1821 hrs