4G Users in Nepal Nears 1.8 Crores, Ntc Adds 5 lakhs

The number of 4G users in Nepal is approaching 1.8 crores after the operators added over 4.6 lakhs in one month. The added figure has also helped the total mobile broadband penetration reach 98.55 percent, the latest NTA report shows.

The report shows that 1 crore, 76 lakhs, 66 thousand, 6 hundred, and 96 people are connected by the fourth-generation cellular network as of Baisakh 2079. The three telcos Ntc, Ncell, and Smart Cell share staggering numbers among them. However, the former two have managed a duopoly in Nepal’s telecommunications market while the third is facing an existential threat.

NTC adds almost 5 lakh 4G users in Nepal in a single month

The government-backed operator Ntc has seen an overwhelming growth of users on its 4G network in recent years. The company pioneered the 4G broadband network in Nepal in 2017 AD.

And talking about the latest figure, Ntc added a total of 4 lakh, 72 thousand, 3 hundred, and 94 users in one single month. The latest customers joined the network between Chaitra 2078 to Baisakh 2079 BS. Now, the company boasts a robust base of 1 crore, 8 lakh, 94 thousand, 3 hundred, and 70 users as per the latest data.

Besides, NTC also uses Carrier Aggregation to boost its 4G broadband network. It has played a crucial part in growing the company’s network so high in recent years. Carrier Aggregation is used in 4G networks to boost the broadband capacity and achieve a consistence performance.

When it comes to the fourth-generation high-speed network, Ntc steers well ahead of its rivals. Ntc occupies 54.36 percent market share of Nepal’s telecom market.

Also read: NTA to Allocate More Frequencies for 4G Network

Ncell keeps growing its 4G base

Ncell Axiata, the private telco, added a modest 96 thousand, 3 hundred, and 79 users on its 4G network. With this, the telco has reached a network of 66 lakh, 18 thousand, 3 hundred, and 98 subscribers. The telco is planning on rolling out VoLTE service soon to offer HD voice calls. Based on 4G, the Voce Over LTE would help Ncell add more reasons to subscribe to its high-speed network. The company has also sent a letter to NTA seeking approval for its 5G project.

Ncell enjoys a strong 39.99 percent telecom market in Nepal.

4G operators	Subscribers	Market Share (%)
Nepal Telecom (NTC)	1,08,94,370	54.36
Ncell	66,18,398	39.99
Smart Cell	1,53,928	5.64

Don’t miss: Ncell brings all-net voice pack at affordable rate

Smart Cell’s struggles continue

Smart Cell, another private telecom operator in Nepal has struggled to stamp its presence at large. The company’s figure continues to fluctuate with the arrears issue keeping it under the NTA radar. As per the latest figure, the telco lost 5 thousand, 5 hundred, and 18 subscribers downing its total to 1 lakh, 53 thousand, 9 hundred, and 28 users.

Smart Cell has an obligation to pay a huge sum to NTA under multiple headings. But there is no sign of the company fulfilling its liabilities while it losing the unified license looks more likely. The company provides 4G for broadband service and legacy network 2G for voice.

Check out: Smart Cell Demands Lenient Installment Payment Facility

4G users continue to soar

Nepal’s 4G broadband connectivity is accelerating thanks to the government’s encouragement and the telcos’ push. However, as the fourth-generation broadband nears full coverage, 5G hype has started in Nepal. As per reliable sources, Ntc is likely to start 5G trials this year. It is likely, that when 5G begins, 4G will gradually fall out of favor but it will take years. But the legacy networks like 2G and 3G will likely be discontinued in Nepal as newer networks and associated technologies proliferate.

For now, 4G is still the sought-after network. It provides potent speed to meet most users’ browsing needs while it is also helping bridge the digital gap in rural areas. So, before 5G makes any significant impact, 4G will stay and rule Nepal’s mobile broadband domain.

What is the state of 4G in your area? Do you receive a satisfying connection on your devices? Do let us know in the comments below.