Free Wire

A consultation paper proposing a frequency reallocation model is unlikely to go through smoothly, with the wireless local-loop (WLL) operators Suntel and Lanka Bell calling it uncompetitive.











A consultation paper proposing a frequency reallocation model is unlikely to go through smoothly, with the wireless local-loop (WLL) operators Suntel and Lanka Bell calling it uncompetitive.

The Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (TRC) sponsored process, if approved by all stakeholders, will see redundant spectrum with the seven operators being reallocated on a staggered plan.

Fixed line operators will be restricted to 2.

5 MHz in the 800 MHz band, while the four mobile operators will each have 7.5 MHz in the 900 MHz band at the end of the process.

In the 800 MHz range, cellular operator Mobitel will release four 2.

5 MHz slots over two years.

The Regulator has proposed to allocate the freed spectrum to the three fixed line operators on a “case-by-case administrative basis” in 2 MHz blocks.

However, industry analysts say the two WLL operators are likely to protest against the recommendation to allocate the first 2.5 MHz spectrum slot in the 80