The Brazilian telecommunications company Telepar will invest $125 million in a 3100-km fiber-optic network throughout the state of Parana by year-end. Another $130 million will be invested in the project during the first half of 1998 to cover an additional 1600-km area. The company expects to solicit bids for the project, which will be built with sdh-based equipment. Telepar also plans to increase cellular units and wire communications services, requiring a $507 million investment.