In the absence of guiding policy, NTA so far has been allocating telecommunication numbers.[break]
The board meeting of telecom sector regulator held recently formed the working committee under NTA Director Ananda Raj Khanal.
NTA Spokesperson Kailash Prasad Neupane said the committee will have to submit report within six months. He further said the report would work as a guideline in organizing the distribution of telecommunication number.
Currently, NTA has assigned 10-digit numbers for mobile telephony and 7-digit numbers for fixed lines in Kathmandu Valley. Fixed lines outside the valley have been assigned six-digit numbers. Similarly, NTA has assigned three-digit numbers for emergency lines and four-digit numbers for companies operating SMS-based services.
“Telecommunication numbers are being assigned on the basis of political influence ever since the establishment of NTA. It is likely to create problems and confusion in the near future,” an official of NTA said, adding that there is no criterion on distribution of three-digit emergency numbers.
“We´re assigning emergency numbers mostly on the basis of cabinet decision or direct order of influential persons.”
A member of the working committee told Republica that the committee would also propose tariff structure for three-digit and four-digit numbers. “Telecom operators must seek NTA nod before assigning such numbers,” the official said.
“Once the policy comes into effect, the regulator will charge the subscribers through the operator.”
Related story
NTA reviewing existing numbering plan
