BSNL expands broadband coverage in Chennai

BSNL Chennai Telephones has brought several key areas in the city, once deemed ‘technically non-feasible’ for sanctioning landline-broadband connections, within the reach of its underground copper cable network.

While underground cabling has now connected parts of Arumbakam, Koyambedu and Ganga Nagar in Urappakam, there are still about six ‘shadow regions’, including Ganesh Nagar (Adambakkam) and Radha Nagar (Chromepet) that are yet to be covered.

BSNL Chennai Telephones currently has 3.8 lakh broadband customers and shortage of certain types of copper cables was hampering efforts to scale up the broadband business.

Following arrival of fresh stocks in January, BSNL has started issuing connections in several areas, officials said. However, securing permission from the Corporation or the Highways for digging up roads for laying cables continues to be a bottleneck, sources said.

““We are aware that in many areas, prospective customers have been waiting for nearly two years for a connection. We will be seeking expeditious clearance for laying copper cables,” a BSNL official said.

Business managers of BSNL see a high market potential for broadband in the newly connected areas in the city. BSNL’s plan is to bring all its 8.5 lakh landline users into its DataOne fold.

In several upmarket gated communities that have 500 units or more, BSNL is also pushing its fibre optic-driven Fibre-To-The-Home offering that promises a far superior broadband experience.