Wednesday, May 01, 2024
Banglalink and Teletalk have announced the national roaming field trial for the first time in Bangladesh.
Through this field trial, both operators will be testing the seamless switching of alternative networks in areas with coverage gaps in various regions across the country. The first phase is being tested for post-paid voice and SMS services in specific regions throughout the country, read a press release on Wednesday.
The following phases will include testing for pre-paid and data services.
This strategic collaboration will enhance mobile connectivity for Teletalk and Banglalink customers across the country while promoting network sharing between the two operators.
Upon completion of the field trial, the service will be available for commercial use where customers will enjoy expanded, seamless national coverage for all services, while promoting energy conservation and green infrastructure development for the country.
This service is currently available in 22 countries including India, Pakistan, Thailand, United Kingdom, and others.
Posts, Telecommunications & Information Minister Mustafa Jabbar said, “This initiative will open up the possibility of network sharing among telecommunication operators in Bangladesh. It is indeed a win-win situation for both operators, as it will enable them to share each other’s resources.”
“Specifically, through this, Teletalk can expand its network coverage by utilising more than 15,000 Banglalink sites across the country. I eagerly anticipate the commercial launch of this trial, which I believe will represent an innovative step forward in realizing our vision of a Smart Bangladesh,” he added.
Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) Chairman Shyam Sunder Sikder said, “As the Regulatory body, the BTRC always encourages and supports intra-industry collaborations in the telecom sector. The national roaming field trial is a one example of the potential of such collaborations.”
“We are facilitating this process for Teletalk and Banglalink and look forward to the successful commercial launch of this initiative. We believe that the insights gained from this trial will help us contribute to the Government's vision of a Smart Bangladesh,” BTRC chairman added.
Banglalink Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Erik Aas said, “Banglalink is proud to partner with Teletalk when pioneering another initiative for sharing of telecommunication infrastructure. This initiative, a first of its kind in Bangladesh, reflects our commitment to the realisation of the government's Smart Bangladesh vision. When launched commercially, this will offer customers of both operators a seamless, high-quality network experience nationwide. The successful implementation of this field trial will not only enhance our services but also pave the way for future cross-industry partnerships and opportunities.”
Teletalk Managing Director A K M Habibur Rahman said, “The commercial launch of the national roaming will be a significant milestone in the history of Bangladesh' s telecommunications. Teletalk is proud to be associated with this joint field trial. We hope that once the roaming is launched upon the successful completion of the trial, it will ensure quality network services for customers of both the operators.”
The soft launch of this innovative field trial took place at the office of the Posts and Telecommunications Division, in the presence of distinguished officials representing the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications, Teletalk, and Banglalink.
