BSNL launches 3G services in Manipur

In a move that has expanded the reach of India's existing 3G networks, BSNL today launched its 3G services in Imphal, the capital of Manipur state. With this the users in the north eastern state will be able to access fast downloads and faster internet access while on the move.

The service was launched at a ceremony in Imphal presided over by chief general manager of BSNL North East II Circle, Ranjan Sanyal. The services will be expanded to other areas of the state in the next few weeks.

According to a senior BSNL official, parts of Thoubal, Churachandpur and Senapati districts would be covered by 3G in the state.

BSNL has been aggressively expanding its 3G services reach with launches in Kerala, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. According to analysts this seems to be part of a strategy to emerge as a dominant player in the 3G sector before the private players step in.

BSNL seems to have specially marked the North East for expansion with other states in the region too poised to take to 3G networks in the near future.

Speaking at the function Sanyal said, ''In the first phase in Imphal city the 3G-UMTS network are available in areas around Porompat, Lamlong Bazar, Chingmeirong, Koirengei, Thangmeiband, Lamphel Exchange, Tera Bazasr, Langjing, Kwakeithel, Singjamei bazaar, Manipur University, Kongba Bazar etc and the 3G service will further be expanded to other district like Imphal-East, Imphal-West district, Thoubal, Senapati, Bishnupur, Churachandpur etc within next 3 to 4 months.''