Port Blair, Aug 18: The BSNL consumers were elated on the launch of the long awaited Optical Fiber Cable by the Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi on 10th of this month. BSNL customers were expecting that after the launch of the undersea cable, both mobile and internet connectivity will be fast and the complaining of the islanders on poor BSNL services will end for once and all. However, the BSNL consumers are dejected, noting that despite the launch of the OFC, internet and mobile services have seen no improvement. Erratic telecom services by the state run Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited, have still been causing problems for the BSNL users in the islanders. The premier telecom service provider has failed to ensure good internet and mobile connectivity in the region rendering the handsets of hundreds of subscribers as mere show pieces. Sources claim that people are still not getting good internet service and cell phone networks give a lot of issues to the people.
Despite a good subscriber base and mobile towers here, most of the time signals remain out of reach. Subscribers here are bearing the brunt of such poor services past many days. It becomes extremely difficult for subscribers to get in touch with their near and dear ones at times of emergency. Lack of signal for Cell phone connectivity has now become a routine here. Before the launch of the OFC, people were expecting to do away with poor internet and mobile services, but for the subscribers nothing good and significant had happened despite the launch of OFC. The telecom service agency claims to be striving hard to provide the best services, but the agency should prioritize communication for remote places like Rangat, Mayabunder and its adjoining areas, said some residents.
Both BSNL mobile and internet services have become totally undependable as one fails to connect to others despite repeated attempts. The service provider has not been living upto the expectations of scores of subscribers in this region. Moreover, government servants posted in outer islands are the worst affected as they are hugely dependent on mobile phones to remain in touch with their relatives in Port Blair and other parts of these islands. Many customers have been forced to discard their handsets due to the consistent problem. The erratic BSNL service is causing tremendous hardships to the subscribers here. Poor internet network and connectivity and complaints to the BSNL authorities reap no benefits. If a complaint is lodged, it takes days for the BSNL officials to restore the services. Remote villages remain cut off from the telecom services for a major part in a day. Even landline services have become unpredictable. The administration should take serious steps to address the woes of the people and instruct the BSNL Office here to ensure reliable services for the remote population.
Courtney: Andaman Express
Despite launch of undersea OFC, no respite from slow internet speed & poor mobile network in Andaman Nicobar
