Mobile towers may get safe space in Orissa

"We have an open policy. The state government will consider the request of the telecom service providers if there is no space and other operational problem," T K Misra, secretary, home department, Orissa government said.

Telecom operators like Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) and Reliance Communications are expected to benefit from the move as the government has agreed to their proposal. Besides, other operators can also take advantage of it.

Setting up of  mobile towers requires a lot of funds and the telecom operators want safety of their towers particularly in the naxal affected areas. The state government, from its side is also willing to permit mobile towers in police stations.

The argument of the government is that it can ensure the breaking down of the communication infrastructure in the areas affected by extremism and violence. However, permitting the telecom operators to set up mobile towers in police stations will not necessarily be in naxal affected areas.

While some the telecom operators have requested the government to set up mobile towers in certain police stations, the state government has also identified some police stations for this purpose.