Online Desk: The mobile network operators (MNOs) have sought a meeting with the telecoms regulator BTRC over internet data package rates as, according to them, the data prices were ‘forcibly reduced’.

The Association of Mobile Telecom Operators of Bangladesh (AMTOB) has recently written to the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) for a meeting with MNOs to review the prices.

Mobile phone operators cut prices of internet data packages apparently under pressure from post and telecommunications ministry.

Private operators Grameenphone, Robi and Banglalink announced cuts on November 10 after increasing the costs following changes to data pack rules.

The state-backed Teletalk, however, reduced the prices before three other operators did the same.

The new rules stipulated that no operator offer data packs with less than seven days of validity, effective from October 15.

On November 07, the telecoms carriers were directed to reduce the price of seven-day internet data package by November 10.

The development came as customers complained over increased rates of new seven-day internet package.

On October 15, operators discontinued their previous three-day data package and introduced the new, more expensive seven-day package.

The BTRC said the prices of seven-day package could not be higher than the previous three-day package prices.

According to the regulator, the prices of 30-day and unlimited data packages also could not be increased.

The operators made the changes to comply with the BTRC instructions to discontinue three- and 15-day packs, and introduced seven-day, 30-day and unlimited ones.

AMTOB leaders have demanded the reinstatement of the three-day internet data package.

According to the AMTOB letter, MNOs also requested to reinstate the previous three-day package which, according to a survey, was the most popular data offer.

However, the BTRC has not replied to the letter yet.

In a November 07 letter, the BTRC said they would review the prices of data packages in future when ‘proper’ time comes.

“After the implementation of this direction, any changes in these guidelines will be considered after reviewing and analysing the overall issues at an appropriate time,” it added.

According to a top executive of an MNO, existing data package prices are not sustainable for the MNOs.

“We want to sit with the regulator and discuss overall issues regarding packages and prices,” he said.

However, the BTRC is not interested in reviewing any data prices before the election.

A BTRC official told the FE that they directed to reduce prices with intent to appease mobile users before polls. “They may review prices and packages once election completes.”

The latest BTRC guideline that took effect from October 15 did not allow packages with three days’ duration.

Under the guideline, the number of packages came down at 40 from 85, including regular and special packages.

Besides, customers are also able to enjoy data carry-forward facility if they buy the same package before the validity period expires.

Customers are now able to carry forward up to a maximum of 50GB data. The same facility also applies to social and bonus packages.