In a bid to enhance the 5G experience for consumers and optimize the rollout of the next-generation network, major Indian telecom operators, including Airtel and Jio, are urging the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) to ease radiation norms in the country. The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI), an industry body representing private telecom operators, has highlighted that the existing electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure limits in India are notably stricter, being ten times more stringent than the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) norms.
Challenges Faced by Telecom Operators: The industry body contends that these stringent EMF exposure norms could adversely impact the deployment of 5G technology, leading to slower speeds, reduced network quality, and inferior signal strength. Despite significant investments by Airtel and Jio in rolling out 5G infrastructure, there is currently limited scope for monetization from consumers. Telcos are concerned that the stringent policies might hinder their ability to provide the optimal 5G experience to users.
COAI’s Plea to TRAI: In a letter to TRAI, COAI has urged the regulatory body to consider relaxing the radiation norms without compromising consumer safety. The plea emphasizes the importance of finding a balance that ensures the protection of consumers while allowing telecom operators the flexibility to deliver an optimal 5G experience.
Challenges Around 5G Deployment Near Airports: COAI has also highlighted another regulatory challenge faced by telecom operators—the prohibition of deploying 5G in the C-band or mid-band near airports. The restrictions specify a no-go zone of 2.1 kilometers from both ends of the runway and 910 meters from the center of the runway. To address this concern, COAI suggests using simulators to assess whether the C-band poses any actual threat to aircraft communications. Telcos are advocating for the relaxation of norms regarding 5G deployment near airports, provided that safety remains a top priority.
As India gears up for the 5G revolution, the collaboration between telecom operators and regulatory bodies becomes crucial to strike a balance between technological advancement and consumer safety.
