Ortel Broadband - A curse for Internet Users in Bhubaneswar

When Ortel Communications began its operation in Orissa, it made high promises of bringing the broadband revolution to the state. It claimed that its fast Internet services would come as a boon for the net surfers and businesses across the state. However, that claim turned out to be hollow, as thousands of customers across the capital feel betrayed by the company and its management.

Ortel never lived up to the expectations of its customers. Ask any regular Ortel Internet user in Bhubaneswar and you will get the answer. Individuals, Business owners and corporate sectors are completely fed up with the services offered by Ortel Communications. During the past 30 days, Ortel customers are experiencing unprecedented Internet problems. Things have taken an ugly turn, as Ortel authorities have almost given up hope of restoring Internet connectivity in many areas including VSS Nagar.

When our correspondent talked to Mr. Siddharth Mishra, Customer Relationship Manager for Ortel Communications, he gave the real picture. Customer Care executives keep promising that problem would be rectified within a few hours. However, Mr. Mishra told in clear terms that Ortel is going through a tough phase and the problem may remain for another 2/3 days. He also could not assure that Ortel would be able to fix it permanently.

Since the Internet users in Bhubaneswar have few options, Ortel is playing the game of monopoly. It signs hundreds of customers every month, but fails to provide them the service for which they pay a good sum. If we believe Mr. Mishra, currently 1500 - 2000 customers in Bhubaneswar are badly affected by this Internet problem. Some users complain that Ortel stops its services exactly at 10 PM every night and then automatically restore it in the morning. This is really weird.

Ortel claims that they have the latest technology to fix any problem and provide the best possible service to their customers. However, this is far from truth. While Ortel managers make merry and cool their heels in Thailand, common people who indirectly pay for those trips, suffer badly.

The company is planning to launch its cable TV and Internet services in West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh and Chattisgarh. If today it takes pride in becoming a leading profit making company in the state, the whole credit goes to its customers who now feel betrayed and cheated by Ortel. The government must step in to stop this exploitation. Otherwise, Ortel Broadband services will become a curse for the thousands of Internet users in the city.