The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC)'s introduction of stricter Quality of Service (QoS) standards is a crucial step towards improving the services provided by mobile phone operators and internet service providers (ISPs) in Bangladesh. The draft regulation titled BTRC Quality of Service Regulations, 2024 comes after years of complaints against poor service rendered by mobile phone operators. Despite the massive boom in the number of mobile phone and internet users over the decades, the industry has fallen far short of meeting consumer expectations. From high call rates to frequent call drops and from poor network coverage to slow internet speeds, the list of subpar services is long. In recent years call drops have become a routine affair, prompting an increasing number of users to vent their frustration and demand compensation for unexpected dropped calls. The BTRC's proposal to enforce a new QoS framework, equipped with stringent penalties for non-compliance, is a welcome step towards addressing these concerns.
The draft regulation introduces several key changes, including a reduction in the allowable call drop rate from 2.0 per cent to 1.0 per cent and a more demanding call setup time, from eight seconds to seven seconds. For more advanced services like Voice over Long-Term Evolution (VoLTE), the benchmark time has been set at three seconds for faster, clearer voice calls. Additionally, the cap on mobile data latency has been tightened to 50 milliseconds, marking a critical improvement in real-time communication quality. Another notable improvement is the emphasis on mobile internet speed, with the required upload speed doubled to 4Mbps. Once effectively implemented, the upgrading will not only enhance the user experience for individuals and businesses relying on mobile data but also put pressure on telecom operators to invest in infrastructure improvements. The new rules extend beyond just mobile services to broadband connections, where ISPs will now be required to deliver 75 per cent of the subscribed download speed and 50 per cent of the upload speed, ensuring that users get what they pay for.
While these changes are promising, it is important to recognise the challenges that lie ahead. The BTRC will need to ensure rigorous enforcement of these new regulations. Regular inspection, drive tests and random sample measurements will be necessary to monitor compliance. Non-compliance, including the submission of inaccurate information or failure to meet required standard, will result in penalties in order to serve as a deterrent to errant operators. The stakeholders and the public have until February 15 to provide feedback on the draft regulation.
An indispensable tool for everyday communication, mobile phone has facilitated the growth of a burgeoning digital economy, encompassing mobile money transactions, e-commerce, e-agriculture, and a wide array of app-based services. To ensure continued growth and accessibility, it is crucial to ensuring quality and affordable services. To this end, a rational tax and duty structure could also play a vital role. Currently, when a mobile phone user recharges with Tk 100, approximately Tk 28 is remitted to the National Board of Revenue (NBR) as taxes. In total, mobile network operators contribute over Tk 54 from every Tk 100 of revenue to the government in the form of taxes and fees. This significant tax burden is a major contributing factor to the high call rates and internet charges faced by consumers. Therefore, a review of the current tax structure is needed to make telecommunication services affordable. An improved and affordable cellular service will not only enhance the user experience but also contribute significantly to the country's economic and social development by facilitating greater access to information, education, and digital opportunities.
Need for better and cheaper telecom services
FE Team | Published: January 19, 2025 20:15:46
Need for better and cheaper telecom services
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