Telecom infrastructure deployment is facing significant hurdles in the state of Uttar Pradesh (UP), causing concerns for both telecom operators and infrastructure providers (IPs). The Digital Infrastructure Providers Association (DIPA) has highlighted the delays in obtaining permissions for deploying telecom infrastructure in UP. Despite the implementation of a single-window system for clearances and approvals by the state government, there are considerable delays in granting permissions to applications. Compounding the issue, telcos and IPs are unable to receive refunds for non-refundable applications they have already submitted.
The problem is particularly prevalent in Ghaziabad and Noida. DIPA has urged the UP government to expedite the approval of pending applications to facilitate the smooth rollout of 5G by telecom operators. The deployment of 5G necessitates a denser infrastructure due to the higher frequency ranges involved compared to those used for 4G.
UP has a single-window clearance portal named Nivesh Mitra, where telecom companies and IPs are required to submit their applications online. However, despite using this platform, delays persist in granting permissions. DIPA has reported that nearly 1000 applications are pending, each incurring a payment of Rs 1000. Consequently, the government holds approximately Rs 10,00,000 from these applications without providing the necessary approvals.
DIPA, representing major companies like Indus Towers, ATC Telecom, Sterlite Technologies, among others, emphasizes that its members are facing significant challenges in deploying telecom infrastructure in UP due to delayed approvals. This issue not only affects the industry players but also impacts consumers. The industry body has appealed to the government to promptly clear all pending applications, enabling a faster and smoother rollout of 5G in the state.
