BSNL fails to restore services to private operators, say reports

The stalemate between BSNL and private telecom operators continues as fresh reports claim the state-run telecom operator has not yet fully restored the connection to other private networks, in spite of a TRAI directive to do so. The telecom regulatory body had directed BSNL to "immediately restore all points of interconnection" between its landline and mobile phones of private service operators.

The disruption to the service means customers of Airtel, Idea and Vodafone will not be able to connect to with BSNL customers and vice versa. The stand off between BSNL and private telecom operators has badly affected various telecom circles including Punjab, Haryana, Maharashtra and Goa. Meanwhile, the BSNL authorities have said they are yet to receive any directive. “We have not received any directions from the headquarters till now,” says BSNL Punjab Circle General Manager Naresh Sharma.

Earlier, the TRAI had ordered BSNL to immediately restore all points of interconnection. Prior to the TRAI directive, the TDSAT had also ordered the state-run telecom operator to restore the connectivity. The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) had also criticised BSNL for suspending inter-connectivity services. In a press statement, the COAI said, “BSNL has defied the ruling of the appellate tribunal and disconnected points of interconnection of private operators in the Maharashtra & Goa circle, claiming non-payment of intra-circle carriage charges.”