TRAI had released a consultation paper seeking recommendation on setting up an all operator National Integrated Directory Enquiry Service. Leading Telcos have opposed the move citing it having disastrous environmental affects. Bharti Airtel said,
Printing a telephone directory consumes enormous resources especially paper, which is extremely critical from environment’s perspective and thus, it would be imperative that for taking any decision to this effect.
Instead, Telcos have recommended a call center or an online solution or a CD/DVD media. I had personally written to TRAI Advisor, Mr. Chaube requesting to start the list with zero entries and add only those who wish to be enrolled. BSNL has expressed similar opinion.
A toll free SMS based query could be another way to get Directory Information for the consumer. Another problem with directory is the huge churn in mobile subscriber base every quarter.
You still have time to protect your privacy and share your thoughts with TRAI – chaubemc AT trai.gov.in