Next generation network: VSNL, AT038;T in talks

US-based communication solution company AT038;T is in talks with Tata group-controlled Videsh Sanchar Nigam Ltd VSNL for rolling out next generation network NGN products in India and will set up global network nodes in Hyderabad, Pune and Kolkata.

8216;8216;We are keen on entering into different verticals of the Indian market. At present, we are in discussion with VSNL for rolling out NGN and other products in India. However, nothing has been finalised yet,8217;8217; AT038;T Asia-Pacific Group Vice-President Steve Lowe told reporters on Tuesday. Lowe said the company would be setting up three more global network modes in Hyderabad, Pune and Kolkota with an investment of 500,000 each to facilitate future strategy of the company.

Currently, AT038;T has four nodes in India in New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Bangalore.

Meanwhile, VSNL has slashed bandwidth tariffs up to 45 per cent on the Tata Indicom Cable. With VSNL8217;s sixth tariff cut in the last four years, prices of half circuit international private lines have come down from Rs 40 lakh in 2001 to Rs 11 lakh for E1 2 mbps, from Rs 7.25 crore to Rs 1.14 crore from DS3 45 mbps and from Rs 21 crore to Rs 3.30 crore for STM-1 155 mbps. These prices are for restorable capacities between India and US. VSNL8217;s recent initiatives of building the Tata Indicom Cable and completing the TGN acquisition have provided it with greater control on international bandwidth cost components.