TRAI stays automatic roaming, roaming rental

The telecom regulator has directed the cellular mobile service providers not to impose fixed charges like roaming rental on their subscribers unless the facility is activated with their prior consent.

Acting on representations from pre-paid subscribers, Telecom and Regulatory Authority of India TRAI directed the mobile service providers to inform the subscriber through sms whenever they roam into another licence area that they will be charged for the roaming facility only when they chose to make or receive a call.

The regulator said any fixed sum for roaming like a rental should not be charged unless a call is either made or received by a customer while roaming.

It also said that the SMS to inform the customer of the roaming facility activation must not be charged. TRAI directions to the service providers came after prepaid subscribers complained they are being charged for auto-roaming services even though they do not want to avail the services.