Dhaka, Bangladesh (BBN) - The state-run mobile operator Teletalk has taken preparation to introduce third generation (3G) technology and extend 2.5G networks to provide modern and upgraded facilities to its users through investing around BDT 22 billion.
“We’ve already started preparation aiming to introduce the 3G technology the first quarter of 2012 on trial basis in major metropolitan cities across the country,” Managing Director of the Teletalk Mujibur Rahman told BBN in Dhaka on Wednesday.
Teletalk Bangladesh Limited has signed a deal with the Industrial and Infrastructure Development Finance Company Limited (IIFDC) to raise fund amounting to BDT 3.0 billion for implementation of the projects.
Besides, the government will borrow BDT 14.77 billion from the EXIM bank of China at 2.0 per cent interest along with 0.2 per cent as service charges. The loan will be repaid by 24 years along with four years grace period.
“An agreement has already been signed between the two governments in this connection,” Mr. Rahman said, adding that the procedure for loan disbursement will start from the next month.
To establish the present government’s vision 2021, the Teletalk signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the IIDFC on Thursday last for syndicated term loan facility.
Under the deal, the IIDFC as the lead arranger will raise a Tk 3.0 billion fund as syndicated term loan which will be used to implement the projects.
By installing the 3G technology, mobile users will enjoy real time video calling, live mobile TV, high speed download, e-education, public health services, tele-medicine and e-shopping through their mobile phones.
BBN/SSR/AD-18Aug11-12:08 am (BST)