Struggling to recoup nearly ₹1 lakh crore invested in 5G networks without adequate use cases, mobile operators are urging the telecom regulator to relax electromagnetic radiation norms in India to reduce their rollout costs. The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) has informed the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) that Indian radiation norms are 10 times higher than global standards, hindering the effective deployment of 5G services.
According to COAI’s letter to TRAI, “In India, the TSPs (Telecom Service Providers) have invested more than ₹1 lakh crore in creating a robust 5G Infrastructure, however, there are still challenges related to the monetization of the 5G services, since there a limited use case for the 5G services. Having no use cases for the 5G is, in fact, a global issue. All over the world, TSPs are unable to recover the amount of investment made in creating a 5G network.”
The letter further highlights, “TSPs are still facing policy and regulatory-related challenges for providing the 5G services other than the lack of established use cases, which is affecting wider adoption of 5G services.”
One of the key concerns raised by the industry is the stringent radiation norms in India. COAI emphasizes, “It is important to note here that the current EMF (Electromagnetic Field) exposure limits in India are significantly stricter (10 times) than the ICNIRP (International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection) norms, and if not revised, will severely harm consumer experience and expectations from 5G in India.”
Industry experts point out that most telcos utilize higher frequency spectrum for 5G, which requires higher power, consequently emitting higher radiation.
Telcos have also requested the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to relax norms rather than banning 5G deployment within a two-kilometer radius of an airport. COAI expressed concerns about DGCA recommendations mandating large exclusion zones for 5G/IMT (International Mobile Telecommunications) base stations, impacting the deployment and availability of 5G services at airports, airstrips, helipads, and adjoining areas across the country.
