The corporation has decided to make additional use of its existing power transmission lines network for setting up an optical fibre network across the country.

It will entail laying of 52,000 kms of optical fibre including setting up of a number of tele-stations at an estimated cost of about Rs 5000 crore. This will not only increase the tele density in the country but will also accelerate application of information technology in urban and rural areas, said PowerGrid in a statement issued on Monday.

With the help of international consultants namely IVO Power Engineering, Finland, Pricewaterhouse Coopers, UK and Simons, UK, Powergrid has chalked out a three pronged strategy.