TRAI Seeks View On Enabling Virtual Network Operators Tie-Up With Multiple Telcos

Telecom regulator Trai on Friday invited views on enabling virtual network operators to tie up with more than one telecom operators for providing wireless and wireline services.

At present, a virtual network operator (VNO) is allowed to partner with only one telecom operator for providing services which need numbering and unique identity of the customers like mobile connection etc.

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India has issued a consultation paper on "Connectivity to Access Service VNOs From More Than one NSO (network service operator)" following reference made by the Department of Telecom based on representation made by VNOs.

"The Authority is issuing this consultation paper for soliciting comments of stakeholders on the issues related to connectivity to access service VNOs from more than one NSO," Trai said in the paper.

The VNOs have requested the DoT to allow them to take connectivity from a telecom operator for wireline services and wireless services from others.

The VNO cited that they face problem in case when VNO takes connectivity from a telecom operator who is providing only wireline services in that area then such VNO has no option for providing wireless services in that area due to existing restrictions.

The VNOs have requested that their peers who intend to provide wireline services only may be required to take connectivity from more than one telecom operator because in some cases partner telecom operators may not have services in some areas where the VNO wants to provide its services.

Trai has invited comments from interested parties by March 22 and counter comments by April 5.