Mobitel subscribers can expect better service in the near future after the signing

of a $9.5 million deal with Alcatel of France Mar 11.

The contract will result in an increase subscriber capacity up to 75,000 customers

and will see Mobitel services expanded to seven more cities in Cambodia. Mobitel

currently has 30,000 customers and their system has become somewhat "congested"

according to a company official.

Alcatel will provide Mobitel with a central hub switching upgrade and additional

base stations for increased service to the provinces. Ten cities have applied for

access to Mobitel's system. Although the final list of seven has not been announced,

Mobitel's General Manager Ian Williams says that Kampong Chhnang, Sisophon and Kampot

are likely to get the nod.