DoT lauds Airtel's efforts on restoring networks in Odisha, AP

NEW DELHI, INDIA: The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has appreciated the efforts of Bharti Airtel for enabling speedy restoration of telecom networks in cyclone ravaged Odisha and Andhra Pradesh.

Last month, 'Phailin', a severe cyclonic storm, had struck the states of Odisha and Andhra Pradesh, bringing in its wake torrential rains and wind speeds of over 200 kmph.

In a letter to Bharti Enterprises chairman, Sunil Mittal, DoT Secretary MF Farooqui said, "Despite the fact that telecommunication networks in both the states had witnessed extensive damage, your staff rose to the occasion and provided speedy restoration of the telecommunication network."

He added that the prompt action taken by Airtel is "commendable". Communication links had been vastly disrupted by the strong winds that went upto a speed of 220 kmph.

Nearly six lakh people were evacuated, including an estimated 4.50 lakh in Odisha and over one lakh in Andhra Pradesh due to the severe cyclone.