Area Code 72 – Ayolas

Geographic Overview

The area code 72 is a geographic National Destination Code (NDC) assigned to the city of Ayolas, located in the Misiones Department of Paraguay. Ayolas is a significant administrative and economic hub on the Paraná River, near the Yacyretá Hydroelectric Dam, one of the largest hydroelectric power plants in the world. The code serves the urban area of Ayolas and its immediate surroundings, including the district of the same name. As part of Paraguay's national numbering plan, the code 72 is used for fixed-line (PSTN) services within this region.

Dialing Formats

When calling a fixed-line number in Ayolas from within Paraguay, the national trunk prefix 0 must be dialed before the area code. The local number typically consists of 6 digits, making the complete national format (072) XXX XXX. For example, a local number might be (072) 123 456. To call from abroad, callers must use the international access prefix (e.g., 00 or +), followed by Paraguay's country code +595, then the area code 72 (without the leading trunk prefix 0), and finally the 6-digit local number. The international format is +595 72 XXX XXX. For instance, +595 72 123 456.

Caller Instructions

• Local callers (within Ayolas): For calls to other fixed lines in the same area code, the local number may be dialed directly, but it is common practice to include the area code for clarity. However, for calls from other regions in Paraguay, always dial 0 + 72 + local number.
• International callers: Dial the international access code (e.g., 011 from the US, 00 from many countries), then 595, then 72, and the local number. Do not include the leading '0' of the national trunk prefix.
• Mobile calls: When calling an Ayolas fixed line from a Paraguayan mobile phone, the same national format applies: 072 XXX XXX.

Overlay and Numbering Considerations

As of the latest ITU-T E.164 guidelines, there is no overlay code for area 72; the code is exclusive to Ayolas. However, due to the growth of VoIP and mobile services, callers may encounter numbers that appear to have this prefix but are actually non-geographic services. Always verify the number format. The national numbering plan is administered by the Comisión Nacional de Telecomunicaciones (CONATEL), which ensures that geographic codes are assigned to specific regions. For fixed-line services, the number length is fixed at 9 digits including the country code and area code (i.e., +595 72 XXX XXX).

Economic and Social Context

Ayolas is known for the Yacyretá Dam, which has driven local development and attracted businesses and workers. The area code 72 is essential for connecting the local community, government offices, and commercial enterprises. Understanding the correct dialing procedures ensures seamless communication with this important Paraguayan region.