If you are a Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) customer in Kolkata and use low cost SMS packs, its a bad news. Calcutta Telephones, i.e. Kolkata circle of BSNL had withdrawn the SMS packs. Earlier two SMS packs were available - Rs 21 for 200 local sms valid for 30days and Rs 46 for 150 local sms and 50 national sms valid for 120days.
BSNL extended these packs from 13.05.2009 to 30.06.2009. From 1st July e-recharging with such cost will be converted into general top ups. Those with early recharged with such packs, could be charged for SMSs though their SMS packs are valid.
According to BSNL Customer care, it is just a system upgradation work, customer will get his balance back. Customers still have problems in sending SMS to mobile no.s of Bengal circle and MTS mobiles; they are charged as national SMS.
This incident shows being a Govt backed PSU, BSNL is slower in taking a decision and providing offers to attract customers, SMS packs are now a good attraction to young customers. At the same time the merger of Bengal and Kolkata circles are also expected for better management and to provide same offers through out the state as other private operators do.
Last week, around 70,000 landline phones and 10,000 broadband connections in central and south Kolkata went on the blink tonight after a fire forced BSNL to shut down its mother exchange on Hungerford Street. Apart from the broadband and the landline connections, 3,000 leased lines and 55 RSUS (Remote Satellite Exchange) connected by DLC (Digital Loop Carrier) have also tripped on the accident of 8th July. Restoration is working on.
