As a result of the shutdown of the 3G network, the 3G connectivity of Airtel subscribers who use only 2G and 3G enabled mobile phones would be disconnected automatically after the scheduled date of the network shut down.

In a statement, the TRCSL said that 3G shutdown is primarily intended to utilize the existing frequencies to deploy 4G services that offer better speed and capacity.

According to the TRCSL, a timeline of 15 months had been given to Airtel to avoid service disruptions it might experience at the end of the transition period due to the shutdown of their 3G network.