Kathmandu, October 13
The Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) has fined 14 internet service providers (ISPs) Rs 50,000 each for violating its approved service standards and licence conditions.
According to an NTA press release, the penalties were imposed under Section 47(1) of the Telecommunications Act, 2053, after an inspection and investigation confirmed the violations.
NTA spokesperson Min Prasad Aryal said the violations included failing to provide services according to approved packages, overcharging customers, offering unapproved packages and failing to inform customers about package changes on time.
The Authority said service providers must submit proposed tariffs and their effective dates for approval at least three months in advance, as required by the guidelines on tariff determination. However, some providers were found to have failed to comply with the requirement.
The fined companies are Broadlink Network and Communication, Classic Tech, Websurfer Nepal Communication System, Fiberworld Communication, Vianet Communications, Aeronet, Dish Media Network, Wifi Nepal, C.G. Communication, WorldLink Communications, Firstlink Communication, Pokhara Internet, Techminds Network and Subisu Cablenet.
The NTA has directed the companies to immediately suspend service packages and tariff rates implemented without prior approval and report the action taken. They must also compensate customers for losses incurred due to the violations, based on claims submitted by affected customers.
The Authority reiterated that all licensed telecommunications service providers must obtain prior approval before introducing service packages or tariff plans and comply with applicable laws and licence conditions.
—RSS
