Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued determination letters to six Long Distance and International (LDI) telecom companies, directing them to clear outstanding dues amounting to Rs80 billion within 30 days.
According to documents available with SAMAA, the dues include Rs24 billion in principal amounts and Rs56 billion as late payment surcharges. The PTA clarified that there is no ambiguity in the assessed liabilities.
The companies have been warned that failure to pay within the stipulated time will result in additional late payment fees.
As per the PTA’s directives:
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RedTone has been ordered to pay the highest amount, Rs14.31 billion.
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Wateen Telecom is required to deposit Rs6.25 billion.
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Circlenet owes Rs5.9 billion.
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WorldCall has been directed to pay Rs5.69 billion.
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Telecard must submit Rs4.07 billion.
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Multinet is to pay Rs1.41 billion.
The determination letters were issued following individual hearings with the defaulting companies. PTA noted that a deadlock persisted during the hearings regarding the payment of dues. Out of nine LDI companies, five expressed willingness to pay the principal amount in installments, while four refused to comply even with installment options.
The authority has made it clear that delays will not be tolerated and recovery measures will follow if payments are not made within the deadline.
