New Extensions

Wireless local loop operator Lanka Bell is splashing US$ 500,000 in internal funds for network expansion in 2005.





Wireless local loop operator Lanka Bell is splashing US$ 500,000 in internal funds for network expansion in 2005. Suppliers, US based Airspan Networks on Monday said Lanka Bell will use the equipment to expand its existing Proximity-based fixed wireless access network.

This recent order allows the company to expand its existing network in both coverage and capacity” said Henrik Smith-Petersen, Regional President of Airspan Asia Pacific.

Lanka Bell has invested over US $ 150 Million (Rs.

8 Billion) in its network to-date.

Industry analysts say a balance sheet cleanup which wipe-off its entire debt has helped the wireless operators concentrate on its service offer.

Lanka Bell’s total outstanding debt was waived off in April 2003, inclusive of accrued interest and related exchange loss provisions.

Optimistic company officials then said, “since we don’t need to allocate large sums of money for interest payments, we can now invest heavily in upgrading the quality and reach of our ne