BSNL has gained millions of subscribers following the recent recharge price hikes by telecom companies like Jio, Airtel, and Vi. However, BSNL users are facing network issues and slow internet speeds, leading to dissatisfaction among many. As a result, most subscribers are using BSNL as a secondary SIM.
Jio, Airtel, and Vi are aware that BSNL customers may return to them due to BSNL’s poor network and internet speed.
Despite these challenges, BSNL is determined to maintain and increase its subscriber base. The company plans to launch 4G and 5G services in India with significant investments from Tata and other companies.
Issues with BSNL 4G
BSNL already has a 4G network, but it is not officially available across the entire country. Many Indian cities and villages still do not have access to BSNL’s 4G service. Additionally, where BSNL’s 4G service is available, it often performs like 2G or 3G, leaving users frustrated. Thus, many people are still upset with BSNL.
Also Read: BSNL SIM: Price, Port, Plans, 4G, 5G, Network, Speed And More
BSNL 5G Strategy
There is currently no BSNL 5G service in India. However, BSNL has launched its 5G SIMs even without a 5G network. The reasoning behind this is to keep their new subscribers hopeful and to attract additional subscribers.
BSNL 4G and 5G Launch Date
According to reports, BSNL has installed thousands of towers in the northern parts of India, including Haryana, Punjab, West UP, Delhi, and Himachal Pradesh. BSNL plans to set up more towers in 2024 and 2025. This expansion is expected to solve network issues across India and facilitate the launch of 4G and 5G services
BSNL is expected to officially launch its 4G service in October 2024 to March 2024 and its 5G service by the end of 2025. If everything goes as planned, it may take another 2-3 years for BSNL’s 4G and 5G services to be available nationwide.
BSNL Price Hike
Currently, BSNL’s plans are much cheaper than those of private operators like Jio, Airtel, and Vi. However, due to BSNL’s weak network, even these affordable recharge plans can be considered expensive when evaluating the service quality.
When BSNL eventually launches its 4G and 5G services, and the network and internet speeds improve, it may also increase its recharge plan prices, similar to other telecom companies. BSNL cannot sustain better services with low-cost plans.
BSNL is already operating at a loss, and if it does not raise plan prices after improving its services, it risks closure due to continued losses. Thus, even the current BSNL plans, despite poor service, are costly.
If BSNL improves its service quality, other telecom providers may reduce their plan rates due to increased market competition. However, as BSNL is a government-owned company, it is unlikely to raise prices excessively.
