In an attempt to build up its national long-distance fibre network in double quick time, the Tatas-controlled Videsh Sanchar Nigam Ltd (VSNL) is buying fibre optic duct capacity from basic as well as cellular operators in the country.
VSNL has struck a deal with fixed-line operator Shyam Telecom in Rajasthan and Fascel in Gujarat to buy over 1,100 kilometres of their surplus duct capacities in these states.
The international long-distance operator has acquired over 700 kilometres of fibre optic duct connecting Udaipur to Bhiwadi in Rajasthan as well as over 420 kilometres from Valsad to Ahmedabad in Gujarat. Talks are also on with the C Sivasankaran-promoted Aircel (which runs cellular operations in Tamil Nadu) to buy part of its surplus duct capacity.
Confirming the development, N Srinath, director (operations), VSNL, said: