VSNL: PLAYS CABLE OPERATOR CARD FOR INTERNET

ISP and international telephone carrier VSNL is hoping to use cable TV networks as a means to provide a cheaper alternative to corporate customers who use leased lines to access the Internet. Leased line annual rentals from VSNL are upwards of Rs 1 million per annum depending on the speed they offer. VSNL says the cost of Internet access via cable operators will cost smaller companies one third the current rental rates.

VSNL says it will provide cable operators high speed links to the Internet who will further provide links to business customers with the help of cable modem companies such as 3Com. VSNL recently conducted successful trials at the Hinduja-run MSO InCablenet in Mumbai. InCablenet executives say that it will start delivery of Internet services in south Mumbai where it has a two-way cable TV network initially.