June 11, 2007

Franchisees/Outlets Directed To Adopt Proper Procedure Before Issuing Mobile Connections

Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has directed all the cellular mobile operators to ensure that their franchisees adopt proper procedure before issuing new mobile connections to the customers.  It has also asked the cellular mobile operators to sell their new connections only through authorized franchisees who would in turn ensure that outlets/sale points within their operational areas also adhere to the laid down procedure.

The directions came subsequent to a meeting held last week with the representatives of the Cellular Mobile Operators (CMTOs) at PTA Headquarters in Islamabad. Chairing the meeting, Chairman Pakistan Telecommunication Authority, Major General (Retd) Shahzada Alam Malik had directed all the CMTOs to ensure that antecedents of the customers are properly documented at the sale points before issuing new mobile connections.

For the adoption of proper procedure while giving new connections or issuing SIMs to the customers PTA has directed that acquiring the copy of the Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) of the customer endorsing the issued mobile telephone number on the said CNIC copy would be ensured at the sale 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 sale points display the proof of their registration/authorization from respective operator(s) at their premises for the benefit of the customers.

PTA has categorically made it clear to all the franchisees that this policy would be implemented immediately and strict action would be taken against those found in violation. By the beginning of July, PTA teams would be checking the implementation of these directives across the country. Any franchisee not found implementing these directions and instructions would be liable to strict action, including cancellation of franchise, the Regulator warned.

 

Khurram Ali Mehran

Deputy Director (PR)