NTA starts process to introduce mobile number portability

Kathmandu, June-22 Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) has started the process to start Mobile Number Portability (MNP) service that allows users to switch operators without having to change their mobile phone numbers.

NTA has sought applications from interested organizations to prepare regulatory framework for the service. Interested organizations will have to submit application within 15 days of the publication of the notice. NTA had published notice for the same on June 10.

As per the notice, interested organizations should submit technical and financial proposals based on Terms of Reference (ToR) published on NTA's website.

"We are working to introduce MNP system as we want to provide alternative option to the consumers at a time when new mobile operators are coming up. Customers should be allowed to switch the operator without having to change their number," Digambar Jha, chairman of NTA, said.

The government had asked NTA to introduce the system in 2010. As per the direction, NTA had commissioned a study in 2011. The study suggested to NTA to introduce MNP only after telephone penetration reaches 60 percent.

Country's telephone penetration has reached 99.8 percent, according to the latest MIS report of NTA.

Source: Republiuca