RCom now only operator to provide 4G services pan-India

NEW DELHI: Telecom firm Reliance Communications has claimed to become India’s first and only operator to provide 4G services across the country with the acquisition of spectrum in the 800/850 MHz bands.

“RCom’s auction participation centered on building appropriate spectrum portfolio and value creation for next 20 years. It invests nearly 50 per cent of its total outlay on 800/850 MHz band,” it said in a statement.

The company further said that it has acquired new and top-up 800/850 MHz spectrum in 11 circles to achieve contiguous 5 MHz spectrum holding nationwide.

RCom operations now future-proofed across all circles for most advanced LTE technology at most optimal cost. It holds 3G and CDMA spectrum in all seven circles, with legacy 2G spectrum expiring in December 2015, the statement said.

The company has also re-acquired spectrum in 900/1800 bands in four of the seven 2G spectrum expiry circles. It has brought 900 MHz spectrum in MP, HP and 1800 MHz spectrum in Orissa, N-E.

It will accelerate transition of 2G customers in remaining three circles to 3G before December 2015. RCOM also has appropriate ICR arrangements to ensure uninterrupted qualityservice to its customers across all circles

The company will be shelling out Rs 4,299 crore for the spectrum and need to pay upfront payment of Rs 1,106 crore.