Puławy is a city very rapidly modernizing its infrastructure. The end-results of modernization of cyber infrastructure in many cities have revealed the benefits derived from opting to do so and leaves no doubt that this is an effective strategy. Therefore, the city authorities have decided to implement a very ambitious project in which the city has constructed its own municipal fibre-optic network.
The broadband network in Puławy is one of the most expensive municipal investments in recent years. In its construction, 41 km of fibre-optic cable was laid. This cost PLN 15 MM, 77% of which was financed from EU funds. The fibre-optic cable is accessible throughout the city, and reaches up to Końskowola and the Zakłady Azotowe [Nitrogen Plant] “Puławy”.
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However, an EU-funded project entails several formal and legal consequences. Among other issues, an investor cannot use the network for own commercial operations. This is where EXATEL comes in.
EXATEL has established cooperation with MPWiK [Municipal Water and Sewerage Company], which involves providing telecommunications services based on the network of the Puławy Fibre-Optic Network infrastructure operator.
“Our clients include institutions important for the residents, such as medical and educational centres. Their efficient operation is something more than pure business. The quality of life and safety of Puławy citizens depend on it. This is why we immediately knew that we needed a reliable partner with experience in telecommunications. EXATEL turned out to be the perfect choice. We appreciate both the competence, as well as the style of our cooperation – open, transparent and professional” – Roman Mazurek, president of the board at MPWiK “Wodociągi Puławskie”.
As an experienced operator, EXATEL commenced providing services that incorporated IP and F2M (fax to mail) telephony to over 46 entities operating within the city. They included schools, hospitals, financial institutions, business enterprises, scientific institutes and even a sports club.
Commissioning the services required building a hub linking the Puławy Fibre-Optic Network (PSŚ) with Internet resources and launching a numbering broadcasting mechanism – all this was possible because MPWiK has the status of a telecommunications operator.
“This project is extremely important for us. It is the first time that EXATEL has provided such a service. Everything went according to the schedule and budget, and today we can enjoy our success together with MPWiK. Therefore, we have gained new competence and experience that can be tapped for implementing similar projects for other clients – from business to local government institution” – Wioletta Woźniak-Kubuj, Key Account Manager, EXATEL
Trust and courage
EXATEL and MPWiK have been cooperating since 2013. The institutions are bonded by many successful projects, thousands of satisfied customers and a joint vision of the future. The example of implementation of PSŚ shows that even the most challenging projects are much easier to deploy if the parties to a contract trust each other and simply want to achieve something for their clients.
