PTA unblocks non-approved phones to lure users.

KARACHI -- Scores of people having non-Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) approved cell phones rejoiced to see local cellular networks on their handsets again. They took to social media to advice others to activate their subscribers' identification module (SIMs) in their blocked phones.

After 60 days of their arrival in Pakistan and without depositing required duty / tax, non-PTA approved phones cannot be used with a SIM card in the country. Such phones can be connected to a WiFi network and used.

While some consider it as a technical glitch, rumours are rife that the Shehbaz Sharif-led government has abolished the hefty tax on expensive cell phones and directed the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to unblock the devices.

However, their...