Bhutan Telecom has commercially launched its 3G network - along with inaugural services for GPRS and EDGE on its GSM network. Launching the service, the information and communications minister, Lyonpo Nandalal Rai, made a video call to the works and human settlement minister, Lyonpo Yeshey Zimba.
Existing subscribers who own capable handsets will be able to access the service for a fee of around US$10.
The information and communications minister, Lyonpo Nandalal Rai, said the launch of 3G service will change our life.
The network infrastructure was provided by Ericsson. GPRS service will be available where ever there is B-mobile network. EDGE service is available in the twenty Dzongkhag headquarters and some major towns. 3G service will only be available in the capital city, Thimphu initially.
The operator also announced that with the setting up of BTS tower near Tashigang Gompa in Thimphu district, B-Mobile services are now available at Yusipang, Hongtsho, Semtokha, Tashigang Gompa and the national highway connecting Semtokha to Dochula as well as the nearby local settlements.
Bhutan Telecom is the sole live operator in the country, although the Tashi Group has recently been granted a license in the country. According to the Mobile World, there are only 100,000 mobile phone users and population penetration is just below 5%.
Posted to the site on 6th May 2008
Posted to: www.cellular-news.com/story/30993.php