State-run telecom operator BSNL is investing Rs 4,000 crore in this fiscal to expand its mobile network, which include installing 8,700 towers. “As part of our phase 7 expansion plans, we are planning to invest Rs 4,000 crore on mobile network. We will be installing 8,700 mobile towers of which 50 per cent are 3G,” BSNL chairman & managing director RK Upadhyay told.
He added the network expansion, which is currently underway, is likely to be completed by March next year. The company has already placed order for procuring equipment for north and south zones and it would place a contract for the east zone soon. The PSU is aiming to strengthen its position in the industry. The firm, which is currently the fifth largest player in terms of mobile phone subscribers is striving to reach the top in coming years.
The company last year started nationwide expansion of its network after a gap of around five years.