BSNL, MTNL to share network for pan-India services

State-run telecommunications carriers -- Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd and Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Ltd signed a pact on Tuesday to share their infrastructure and provide joint services to corporate customers.

BSNL operates mobile, fixed-line and Internet services in 20 of India's 22 telecommunications zones, while MTNL operates in the key Delhi and Mumbai zones. Hit by intense competition from private sector rivals, both carriers have seen their market share eroding, and lost money in the past four fiscal years.

Under the pact, the two carriers will share assets like buildings, mobile masts and international long-distance phone networks, the companies said in a joint statement.

MTNL shares rose 9.7 percent to 15.25 rupees by 11.30 am. BSNL is not publicly traded.