Wireline subscribers base decline, mobile continues growth

New Delhi, Oct 12 (UNI) Wireless or mobile subscribers increased to 6.07 million by the end of September 2006, while in the same period the wireline or fixed user base declined by 0.12 million resulting in a net increase of 5.95 million.

In August, the net additions were almost similar at 5.94 million during August 2006.

At the end of September 2006, total wireline subscribers were, 40.75 millions and wireless (Mobile and WLL-F) were 129.51 million.

The gross telephony subscribers in country reached 170.26 million as compared to 164.31 million in August 2006.

The overall tele-density reached around 15.44 in September 2006 as compared to 14.80 at the end of August 2006.

The net addition of wireless and fixed line subscribers in the first six months of FY 2006-07 is 29.94 million, which is more than double as compared to addition of 14.66 million in the corresponding period of FY 2005-06.

Broadband connections have continued the steady growth since beginning of 2006. At the end of September 2006, total broadband connections in the country have reached 1.82 million having net addition of 0.10 million during September 2006.

The additions during first six months of current financial year is 0.47 million as compared to 0.43 millions during the corresponding period in the previous financial year.

UNI/RT SBA HT1740