TRAI seeks views on issues over closure of telecom services

KOLKATA: The telecom regulator has floated a new discussion paper seeking clarity on issues faced by consumers, typically, when operators need to switch off networks due to changes in licencing rules, discontinuation of a particular mobile technology or even the advent of spectrum trading.

In a consultation paper issued Wednesday, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India ( Trai) has sought views from stakeholders on whether the notice period to subscribers in case of a services closure needs to be enhanced from 30 days to 60 days to give customers enough time to use up their talktime balance.

It has also sought views on whether a telco needs to give such 60 days advance notice to customers, the telecom department (DoT) and Trai if it is selling airwaves in a particular circle and shutting down operations.

The regulator has also sought industry feedback on whether a telco migrating customers to a newer mobile technology should offer them tariff protection and carry-over of unused talk-time balance. “The Authority, suo-motu, decided to examine these issues through a consultation paper as there have been cases where due to changes in policy of assignment of licence, trading of spectrum or upgradation of a (mobile) technology, there has been discontinuity of services to subscribers,” the Trai said.

The sector regulator has also invited suggestions from telcos on the ideal mode of communicating a services closure to subscribers. This apart, Trai has sought industry views on whether there is a need to tweak licensing regulations for telcos who have liberalised airwaves originally acquired through the administrative route.

Liberalising has to do with paying the market price for airwaves that were originally allotted and not auctioned. Trai has also sought stakeholder suggestions on how much time customers should be given to port out, post-closure of commercial services by a telco.