The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has provided the facility of free calling to toll-free numbers (0800-XXXXX) for all mobile users.
Previously, calls to toll-free numbers were free only for fixed-line users.
In a statement issued by the PTA it was said that earlier mobile users were charged a prescribed fee for making calls to toll-free numbers.
To protect consumers’ interests and ensure the provision of telecom facilities the matter was taken up and necessary steps were taken so that calls to toll-free numbers could be made free for all users.
The statement further said that in this regard the PTA held consultations with all relevant stakeholders including PTCL, NTC, local loop operators and cellular mobile operators.
After detailed deliberations and positive consultations it was agreed that calls to (LL) toll-free numbers would be free for all users.
The PTA stated that the authority remains committed to ensuring equal access to telecom services in Pakistan promoting consumers’ interests and establishing an effective and user-friendly telecommunications environment.
In a separate development, PTA had issued a warning about blocking inactive SIM cards.
According to the authority, mobile operators are authorised to block SIMs that have remained inactive for six months.
SIM cards that have not been used for calls, messages, or internet services for 180 days will be deactivated, officials said.
They added that once blocked, the number may be reissued to another user.
In a social media message, the PTA said that once a SIM is reissued to another customer, the previous user will have no legal claim over the number.
Users have been advised to continue using their SIMs responsibly to avoid inconvenience.
PTA warns inactive SIMs will be blocked
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) warned that mobile SIM cards that remain inactive for six months will be blocked.
Telecom operators can deactivate SIMs that have not been used for 180 days. SIMs with no calls, messages, or internet activity during this period will be considered inactive and may be suspended.
The PTA said that once a SIM is blocked, the number can be given to another user. The previous owner will have no legal claim over it.
Mobile users are advised to use their SIMs regularly to avoid deactivation and losing their numbers.
Also read: PTA warns: foreign SIM use can lead to legal trouble
