Vodafone Idea (VIL) has solidified a $3.6 billion (~Rs. 300 billion) deal with network leaders Nokia, Ericsson, and Samsung, marking the largest capex investment in its history. This move is a crucial step in VIL’s $6.6 billion three-year capital expenditure plan, aimed at expanding its 4G reach from 1.03 billion to 1.2 billion people and launching 5G in key markets.
Akshaya Moondra, CEO of Vodafone Idea, remarked, “This investment initiates our transformative journey to drive industry growth and improve customer experience. We are excited to strengthen our long-standing relationships with Nokia and Ericsson while welcoming Samsung onboard.”
The agreement will enable VIL to deploy cutting-edge equipment to enhance network efficiency and reduce energy costs. Initial rollouts have already increased capacity by 15%. For Siliguri, the upgraded infrastructure is expected to significantly improve connectivity, supporting faster 4G and preparing for future 5G services. This development is poised to enhance business operations and customer experience in the region, particularly in the retail and logistics sectors.The capex program is being financed through equity raises, with further funding discussions underway with lenders.
