'Airtel will cover every nook and corner'

Bharti Airtel, the world's 3rd largest single country wireless operator is keen on investing in Sri Lanka. With an initial investment commitment of US$ 200 million spanning over 5 years, it is one of their biggest investments. Rs 100 million of the investment has been already pumped in said President Mobile Services Sanjay Kapoor.

In an exclusive interview with the Sunday Observer he said that technology will help Airtel to attract new as well as existing mobile users. Though they are coming as the 5th operator they are humbly proud with the overwhelming response we received. "In our experience of 10 years we have never seen such queues patiently waiting. This is a new experience for us," he said.

Kapoor said that if the response continues all targets will be met.The company and the management are focused on giving a good customer experience. "We are not overwhelmed by market share we want to give a good service and market share will follow," said Kapoor.

This is our main aim and as we achieve that target market share and profits will follow. At present Airtel is present in Western, North Western, Central, Sabaragamuwa and Southern Province. Bharti and Singtel are members of the Bridge alliance. Mobile telephony is our biggest foray and now we are only focused on mobile telephony. In the developing world it is all mobile telephony. We will see broadband services also being delivered through mobile devices which give speed and a consistent service. Modern day dongles allow wifi environment.The service launched in Sri Lanka is 3.5 generations HSPA technology."

Sri Lanka as well as countries in the region are blessed as they leap frogged to 3.5 g without much hassle.

He said that Airtel has decided to cover every nook and corner of the island provided the law of the land permits the company to do it. Already 60 per cent of the population is covered while the roll out is ongoing. The overwhelming response of the customers is a humbling experience and therefore the result of the wait is rewarding.

He said that Government policies and regulations are supportive of accepting the 5th operator and "we are happy to work with them to serve the Sri Lankan customers to contribute to the Sri Lankan economy in a positive manner."

Kapoor said that corporate packages are never announced in public. "Based on the needs and the requirements of the corporate sector we will offer some attractive packages. Airtel team will give an distinctive advantage to the corporate customers of this country," assured Kapoor. SG