PTA initiates checking of undocumented SIMs: Raids on outlets planned
KARACHI, Aug 3: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has started checking of unauthorized sale of mobile phone SIMs from Aug 1 so as to ensure that new mobile connections are issued after proper documentation across the country.
According to a media release, various teams of the PTA zonal offices at Lahore, Karachi, Quetta, Peshawar and Multan will carry out surprise visits and inspections in their respective areas.
The authority also plans to seal all those franchises which fail to comply with the PTA instructions regarding the issuance of cellphone connections and the mobile company concerned will also be asked to cancel its franchise.
Besides, all mobile phone firms will be asked to take remedial measures and ensure implementation of the PTA directives in this regard.
The PTA has also launched a media campaign to create awareness about the issue among the mobile phone franchises as well. Similarly, mobile companies are running advertisements and sending SMS to the subscribers advising them to get their connections transferred in their names.
The telecom authority has directed the mobile companies to get their data streamlined by Aug 31, after which the companies will have to provide complete data of their subscribers’ base to the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) for verification purposes.
It may be mentioned that for the adoption of proper procedure while giving new connections or issuing SIMs to the customers, the PTA had earlier directed that acquiring the copy of the Computerized National Identity Card of the customer endorsing the issued mobile telephone number on the said CNIC copy would be ensured at the sales point.
The customer wishing to purchase a SIM would also be required to fill the customer agreement form that has been made simple for the convenience of the general public.
Under these directives, the franchisees would also be required to ensure that their sales points display the proof of their registration/authorization from respective operator(s) at their premises for the benefit of the customers.
Source: Dawn
Date:8/4/2007
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