According to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan will now have access to the Device Identification, Registration,and Blocking System (DIRBS).
PTA has decided to introduce DIRBS in GB and AJK on September 1, 2023, and that all necessary preparations have been made.
According to PTA representatives, the purpose of installing this system in AJK and Gilgit-Baltistan is to prevent the usage of stolen and smuggled phones. SMS messages have been used to update citizens on the condition of their devices.
When questioned, PTA spokeswoman stated, “DIRBS is launched and the process for pairing devices is underway. After 1 September, no phone will be registered without FBR tax being paid. Following the pairing of all available devices with their respective numbers, the registration procedure will begin.
According to PTA representatives, the federal government decided to put the DIRBS system into place after receiving approval from the AJK and Gilgit-Baltistan Council.
In Gilgit-Baltistan and AJK, stolen and smuggled phones are often utilised. It was decided to integrate SCO with the DIRBS system, and clearance was acquired from the Federal Cabinet. This was done since many residents of Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan used to implant SCO SIMs in unregistered mobile phones.