GTPL takes majority holding in Assam-based MSO

Rebecca Hawkes ©RapidTVNews | 25-01-2012

Gujarat Telelinks (GTPL) has taken a 51% stake in the Assam-based multi system operator (MSO) V&S as part of its expansion plans in north east India.

The latter operator has a cable TV network in Dibrugarh, where it is based, and also serves the neighbouring Upper Assam towns of Tinsukia, Digboi, Sivasagar, Demow, Moran, Margherita and Ledo.

GTPL, one of the leading cable TV and broadband providers in its home state of Gujarat, is 50% owned by one of India's leading MSOs Hathway Cable & Datacom.

"We intend to expand through this MSO in Assam, including Guwahati, and the north eastern region. We have done a valuation based on a profit ratio over two to three years," Anirudh Sinh Jadeja, CMD, GTPL, is quoted as saying in Indiantelevision.com.

The company has not disclosed the value of the deal, however industry rumours suggest it would be valued at around INR12 million.

GPTL already holds a 51% interest in Kolkata Cable and Broadband Pariseva in West Bengal. In addition to its presence in Gujarat, it also operates cable networks in the states of Maharashtra and Rajasthan.