Grameen Phone starts deploying 1800MHz frequency network

Wed Apr 06, 2005 3:51 am            

GrameenPhone Limited has started deploying 1800MHz frequency network to provide its customers with improved and seamless coverage.
GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication) technology-based GP is now using 900MHz frequency.


"Although it is not a new technology for the world, it is something new for the country," Yogesh Malik, GP's chief technology officer, told reporters at a briefing yesterday in Dhaka.


GP subscribers using 1800 MHz handsets will be able to have the extended benefits from the upgradation of network. 900 MHz handset users will also be able to make and receive calls without any hindrance. Officials said over 90 percent of the country's mobile phone subscribers use 1800 MHz handsets.


In a bid to enhance coverage, the company plans to cover 80 percent of the population from the current 50 percent. It has network coverage in 360 upazila in 61 districts, out of 64. GP now has 1,650 base stations. The company will also install more base stations as part of its network building effort.


GP, which has about 3 million subscribers, mostly in the pre-paid segment, has so far spent Tk 2600 crore on network. GP launched its service in March 1997.


Syed Yamin Bakht, head of communications of GP, also spoke at the briefing.

Sun Jun 25, 2006 3:58 pm