DoT norms reduce inconsistencies: COAI

The Cellular Operators Association of India on Monday, said the guidelines issued by the department of telecommunications to state governments for issue of installation of mobile towers would help in eradicating the confusion regarding installation and operations of mobile towers.

The guidelines are focused on speedy development of the national telecom infrastructure and have been finalised after consultations and deliberations with the respective state government officials and relevant stake holders, COAI said in a statement.

The guidelines encourage a nominal one-time fee, single window clearance, and electricity connection on priority for mobile towers. It, however, does not suggest any exclusion area where towers might be installed or located.

 

“We are working closely with the DoT to ensure all safety norms are made universal and fears of the public about the telecom towers are removed,” said Rajan S Mathews, director general, COAI.

The finalisation of the guidelines for installation of telecom towers and establishment of a portal indicating all emissions levels of all antennae would provide comfort to citizens about the safety of towers and their emissions, he added.