The way the advisors are progressing with the process and methods, they should submit the report for the phase one detailing options of synergising the operations of BSNL and MTNL by January-end, although they have the time till February end, sources told PTI.
The phase II will have implementation strategies. ICICI Securities led consortium was appointed as advisor by Department of Telecom in December and was given three months' time to submit the first phase of report which should focus on the options along with pros and cons with regard to both the PSUs.
Out of the options, the advisor is also expected to list out the most preferred route serially and with reasons. After submission of this report, DoT will analyse the report with the two PSUs and will look at the implementation part.
The options at present are -- BSNL buying out MTNL, MTNL merging with BSNL, holding company, among others.
Sources said human resources, cost of synergising are likely to be the major concerns which may weigh against the proposed move, but the overall benefit of the synergy largely outweigh these costs.