Customers using BSNL network are likely to get access to 4G services after October 30.
With this, the internet speed is likely to increase and BSNL subscribers can download photos and videos faster.
BSNL Mangaluru Circle (Mobile network division) DGM Balachandra Bhat told DH
that the work on installing equipment to provide 4G services to 164
tower stations was in progress and the work is likely to be completed by
end of October.
“The installation works have been expedited.
Initially, the plan was to launch 4G services from October 1. Owing to
delays in the arrival of equipment, we have fixed October 30, as the
deadline,” he said.
Once the service is launched, customers will get 4G
services from Ucchila in Udupi to Nethravathi bridge at Jeppinamogaru.
It will also be available at Kinnigoli to Farangipete covering Kateel,
Kaikamba, Valacchil and other areas. After crossing these areas, the
customers will continue to get 3G or 2G network services, Bhat
explained.
“As we roll out 4G services through 164 towers in
and around Mangaluru, we will switch off 3G services from those base
tower stations. This will mean that all BSNL mobile customers having 3G
services will not get data service in the city unless they upgrade their
SIM cards to 4G,” he said.
“We have been reminding customers with 3G SIMs to
exchange their SIMs by sending them SMS, IVRS calls to avoid sudden
disruption of data service once the 4G services are introduced in
Mangaluru Circle. A customer from Puttur will not get the internet
service in Mangaluru if he fails to change the SIM,” he added.
Each tower will have three antennae to provide
high-speed internet. There are over 1.50 lakh BSNL customers in
Mangaluru Circle. Customers are rushing to change their SIM at customer
care centres.
“Customers need to bring their Aadhaar cards or
other documents of proof of change their SIM at the BSNL Customer
Service Centres,” he said.
“BSNL has started issuing closed user group
customers with the SIM by visiting their place of work, to speed up the
work on issuing the SIMs. In fact, 4G SIM alone is not sufficient, even
the handset needs to be compatible to avail the 4G facility,” he added.