Question : TRIAL OF NEW GSM NETWORK

(a) whether the subscribers are facing great deal of inconvenience due to the trial of new Global system for Mobile (GSM) Network being carried out by the Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Limited (MTNL);

(b) if so, the details thereof; (

(c) the facilities likely to be made available to the subscribers after GSM network becoming operational;

(d) whether the Government proposes to carry out similar tests by Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) also in the country;

(e) if so, the details thereof; and

(f) the time by which it is likely to be implemented?

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (SHRI JYOTIRADITYA M. SCINDIA)

(a) to (c) Sir, there was some temporary congestion in the cellular mobile network of MTNL Delhi due to upgradation and capacity expansion of 750K lines. This has now been commissioned and network is working satisfactorily. The new network will provide better coverage and more capacity.

(d) to (f) Global System for Mobile (GSM) Network of Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) is already operational. Necessary tests are being carried out as and when required.