BSNL’s WLL launch in Kerala runs into hurdles

Our Correspondent in Kochi

The Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) plans to launch its wireless local loop (WLL) services in Ernakulam has hit a stumbling block and following complaint from mobile service provider BPL Mobile. The effect of this plaint is likely to be felt in other parts of Kerala as well
The WLL services were to be launched in Ernakulam telecom circle from September 8. All arrangements to this end had been readied when a complaints was lodged with the wireless adviser’s office in Delhi, said Sanchar Nigam DGM AK Saxena.

Following the complaint, orders were issued to BSNL to put off the launching of the services till further notice.

According to BPL Mobile sources, BSNL had infringed into the frequency of BPL Mobile. This was gross violation, the sources added.

However, they said that though WLL services were in no way a threat to the mobile services BPL was offering, the infringement would affect its services. Hence the company had to file a complaint.

Mr Saxena said BSNL was operating in a totally different bandwidth and there was no reason for any clash.

The authorities in Delhi had earlier cleared the frequency for the WLL services. There was no complaint then.

He wondered how this issue of violation cropped up just before the launch of BSNL’s service.

WLL mobile service covered only a radius of 20 km and was to be launched only in Ernakulam. It had been launched in Delhi five years ago and in Ahmedabad two years ago.

The services were also there in Pune. In none of these places did any of the cellular operators file any complaints.

Also there was a very healthy competition in those places. As far as Ernakulam was concerned, it could be fear of competition that forced the cellular operator to file a complaint.

Till the matter has been looked into by the wireless authority in Delhi, BSNL will have to wait. Mr Saxena hoped that it would not take more than a fortnight. However, this would affect BSNL’s business in a big way. There were many applicants or the WLL services which would cover besides the towns of Ernakulam and Aluva, the hilly areas in the exchanges at Thodupuzha, Idukki, Iruttukanam and Edamalayar. Till a final decision is arrived at, BSNL will not entertain any applications.