Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has started checking the unauthorised sales of new SIMs across the country to ensure that new mobile connections are issued after proper documentation.
A statement issued by the authority on Thursday said that various teams of PTA zonal offices at Lahore, Karachi, Quetta, Peshawar and Multan would carry out surprise checks and inspections in their respective areas.
The PTA would start sealing those franchises which were not complying with PTA instructions on issuance of new cellphone SIMs and concerned company will be asked to cancel its franchise. After these inspections, companies will also be asked to take remedial measures and ensure the implementation of PTA directives.
It may be added that PTA has taken a number of steps to deal with this issue and has directed cellular mobile companies to ensure that new SIMs are sold only through its franchises or their authorised sale points. PTA has also launched a campaign in newspapers to make mobile phone franchises aware on this issue.
Similarly, mobile companies are running ads in the press wherein they have advised their users to get their connections transferred in their names if they have not done yet. Companies are also sending SMSs to their subscribers in this regard.
PTA has directed the mobile companies to get their data streamlined at their end by August 31. Companies will provide complete data of their subscribers' base to 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 PTA has earlier directed that acquiring the copy of the Computerised 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/authorisation from respective operator(s) at their premises for the benefit of the customers.