The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has announced a major relief for mobile users by deciding to make calls to toll-free numbers (0800-XXXXX) completely free across Pakistan.
Under the new arrangement, mobile phone subscribers will no longer be charged for calling 0800 numbers. Previously, these calls were free only for fixed-line users, while mobile users still had to pay standard charges despite the numbers being labeled as toll-free.
PTA said it took notice of the issue in the interest of consumer protection and user facilitation, acknowledging the long-standing confusion and inconsistency faced by mobile subscribers. The authority has now initiated steps to eliminate the difference in treatment between mobile and fixed-line users.
Why This Matters
Toll-free numbers are widely used by:
- Banks and financial institutions
- Government helplines
- Utility companies
- Customer support centers
Making these calls genuinely free for mobile users is expected to improve access to essential services, especially for people who rely entirely on mobile phones and do not have fixed-line connections.
What Changes for Users
- Calling 0800 numbers from mobile phones will be free
- No deduction from mobile balance or packages
- Equal treatment for mobile and landline users
The move is being welcomed as a consumer-friendly step and part of PTA’s broader efforts to improve transparency and fairness in Pakistan’s telecom sector.
