Currently, mobile phone operators have 95 types of packages. Their duration ranges from one hour to indefinite. However, BTRC has instructed the operators to limit the number of packages to 40. As a result, some short-term packages are being closed.
This information was learned from the source of Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC). The organization has instructed mobile phone operators to close 3 and 15 day internet data packages from October 15.
As a result, mobile phone users will have the opportunity to buy 7 or 30 day internet data packages from then on. There is also the facility to buy data packages for an indefinite period.
BTRC’s statement is that they have reached this decision after surveying the mobile phone users and they are in favor of limiting the offer packages.
Mobile phone operators have been expressing dissatisfaction with so many types of packages for a long time. Telecom and ICT Minister Mustafa Jabbar told the media, ‘They (mobile phone operators) used to offer 300 types of packages before. Now they are offering 95 types of packages. Is it possible for customers to remember all 95 types of packages and choose their preferred package? This is causing extreme confusion among people. That’s why we have asked them to reduce it to within 40.’
Former Secretary General of Association of Mobile Telecom Operators of Bangladesh (AMTOB) T I M Nurul Kabir said, ‘If the option to buy data for a short time at a low cost is eliminated, it will be very inconvenient for them. Customers should always have the freedom to choose alternatives.’
According to experts in the telecommunications sector and consumer rights organizations, this has limited the freedom of choice of consumers. This initiative will have an economic impact on the grassroots, low-income and young people. As a result, the use of telecom services, especially the internet, will decrease.