BSNL Rajahmundry circle consolidates its position

To focus on expansion of CellOne services this fiscal

Despite stiff competitions from the private players, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited, Rajahmundry telecom district, continues to dominate the landline market by maintaining its market share at 90 per cent. On the CellOne front, it has captured a market share of around 45 per cent.

BSNL district general manager R M M Krishna told Business Standard that the company registered a turnover of Rs 120 crore last fiscal and its profits stood at Rs 18 crore.

"This fiscal, we are expecting a 5 per cent increase in the turnover and profits accordingly," Krishna said.

As on today, the East Godavari district has 2.11 lakh landline connections and 70,000 CellOne connections. In the current year itself, there was an increase in landline connections by 25,000.

Many of the BSNL customers who went in search of greener pastures are returning to us keeping in view the long-term gains, he said.

Krishna said that the expansion work of installation of 40 more towers to bring more area under the CellOne umbrella will be completed by July 2005.

"Approximately Rs 35 crore is being spent on the expansion of towers. With this expansion, the number of towers in the district will increase to 73. As a result of the expansion, Ramachandrapuram, Yeleshwaram, Amalapuram, Ravulapalem and parts of Rajahmundry will be covered to ensure clarity in communication. The thrust in the current fiscal will be on the expansion of CellOne services," he said.

The CellOne connections are expected to increase by 1 lakh with the expansion of cell towers this fiscal, he added.

Krishna said that for popularising the scheme of unlimited internet browsing under the second landline-dedicated internet connection, the offer of Rs 399 for unlimited browsing is being extended until December 2005. The facility will be extended to only those who join the scheme during the period.

As on date, 10,000 customers have taken a second landline connection for a 24-hour browsing. Under the scheme, the customer will not be charged annual rental deposit or installation charges, he said.

Another scheme, Student Internet, has also been introduced under which students get access to internet for Rs 99 for the second landline connection.

Krishna said that the answering machine service for landline subscribers will be introduced from April 2005. Those who opt for the facility should dial 152 and get themselves registered. Broadband connections will also be given at Rajahmundry from April 2005. Already 150 customers have applied for the broadband services, he said.