BSNL to appoint PCO owners as retailers

With the launch of the 'One India' plan, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd, Punjab circle, will appoint PCO owners as retailers of BSNL's wide product range.

"We have given this option to PCO owners to be our retailers across Chandigarh, Mohali and Panchkula ,wherein they can sell recharge coupons and new subscriber forms," said OP Sikka, principal general manager telecom, BSNL.

Till January 2006, BSNL Punjab saw 11,000 subscribers surrendering their landline connections, in contrast to 18,000 in 2004-05. Acknowledging the fact, Sikka said the department had started a special campaign to redress subscribers complaints.

"Providing free-re-connection of disconnected telephones, no rental for the period for which the phone has been disconnected, and giving the subscriber an opportunity to upgrade to broadband, free of cost, are some benefits we are offering," added Sikka.

He announced alternate tariff plans under the "One India"plan for both landline and mobile customers with effect from March 2006.

"In addition, there are flexible tariff plans having a monthly rental fee of Rs 180, Rs 250, Rs 699, and Rs 1,999 respectively, with free calls worth Rs 108, Rs 162, Rs 730 and Rs 1,260," said Sikka.

For improving the quality of mobile services, a total of 90 more Base Transceiver Stations (BTS) sites have been identified in the region, of which 58 alone are in Chandigarh and 32 are under installation in Panchkula and Mohali.

Currently, there are 49 towers in the tri-city catering to their need.