The Telecommunications Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka (TRCSL) has granted its permission to Bharati Airtel Lanka (Pvt) Ltd (Airtel) to shut down their 3G mobile network effective from June 26, 2022. As a result, the 3G connectivity of Airtel subscribers who use only 3G enabled mobile phones would be disconnected automatically after the scheduled date of network shutdown, the TRCSL said in a statement. The 3G shutdown is primarily intended to utilize the existing frequencies to deploy 4G services that offer better speed and capacity, the statement read further. A timeline of 15 months has been given to Airtel to avoid service disruptions that might be experienced at the end of the transition period due to the shutdown of their 3G network. The TRCSL said Airtel is obliged to absorb at least 90% of its 3G subscriber base into their 4G network during the transition phase subject to the following conditions: 1. Conduct public awareness campaigns to encourage Airtel subscribers to migrate to 4G network ahead of 3G shut down 2. Take every endeavour to provide 4G handsets for its 3G subscribers at subsidized rate on instalment basis 3. Drive the transition by offering incentives such a series of different promotions, an impressive tariff package for the first 06 months 4. Notify its 3G subscribers by sending SMS, at regular intervals, to change their handsets with 4G enable ones before the given timeline The TRCSL instructs Airtel subscribers who are still using an only 3G-enabled mobile phones to contact the company over the short code 780 immediately to obtain the 4G connectivity together with a new mobile phone under concessionary terms. This concession can be enjoyed only until the 01st of June, 2022. If the subscribers can lodge a complaint with the TRCSL, if they have encountered any difficulty in obtaining a 4G mobile phone during said time limit, the statement added. Airtel's statement on the matter is detailed below:

Airtel Lanka strengthens its 4G network

Shuts down its 3G data network services to continue uninterrupted Airtel Lanka announced that it will be upgrading its network with additional LTE bandwidth and capabilities by shutting down 3G data services.

This will allow Airtel Lanka’s 4G/5G services to be enhanced and improved, offering users a faster and consistent network experience. The move is said to result in upto 50% increase in data speeds and will also drastically reduce network traffic congestion.

The shutting down of 3G data services will take effect from 24th June 2022. The telecom operator reiterated that its 2G network will continue to operate, allowing all its users, including the 3G handset customers to have uninterrupted access to voice and text message services.

Furthermore, Airtel confirms that a significant number of users have already migrated to 4G and are currently enjoying its benefits. To facilitate the remaining 3G only, data users to upgrade to 4G, Airtel has partnered with leading retailers to offer a range of affordable options for 4G-enabled devices across all price points. Additionally, all users who upgrade from a 3G only device to a 4G device will receive FREE 60GB anytime 4G data.

Airtel’s world-class 4G network around the island is also 5G ready and promises users a superior experience including 99% buffer-free streaming, noticeably quicker loading times and improved indoor coverage with 4G signals that never fail. Airtel offers 4G users a range of Freedom packs, each designed with affordability, reliability and quality in mind.