"CDMA (code division multiple access) will have competitive edge over other operators due to its advanced technology," CityCell's Head of Sales and Marketing Intekhab Mahmud told reporters after an iftar party.

He, however, refrained from quoting possible investment figures for its network expansion to woo more customers.

Replying to a question on possibility of such huge growth, Intekhab said the potential in Bangladesh market is enormous.

He said CityCell launched 'Hulusthul' package on Sunday, offering a phone with connection at Tk 4,499 to rope in more customers. "And in just 24 hours we have witnessed a sale of 40,000 new connections through the package."

A range of 14 handsets are available under the package offering both pre-paid and post-paid services with options of mobile-to-mobile and fixed phone BTTB connectivity.

This campaign also popularises the use and spread of RIM (removable identification module). RIM is a chip that can be used with a variety of RIM compatible CDMA handsets.

CityCell will also introduce international roaming facilities covering 110 countries for its post-paid subscribers this year.

Intekhab said the number of cellphone users will grow by around 15 million in the next three years.

He said CityCell that has been using US telecom equipment manufacturer Motorola's gear is looking for cheaper Chinese origin vendors.

In 2005, CityCell is expected to launch 2000 1x, the next step in CDMA technology, giving more options to users. The 1x will allow MMS (multimedia messaging service), web access, interactive menus and more, taking wireless technology closer to offering 3G (third generation) applications to consumers.

Among others, Shaukat Mahmood, media consultant, and Forhad Alam, senior vice-president, attended the iftar party hosted by Pacific Bangladesh Telecom Limited (PBTL), the service provider of CityCell.