DoT asks cos to vacate higher frequency band apt for 5G in 6 mths

The government has asked telcos and other firms using higher frequency band of 3300-3400 Mhz, which has potential to be used for 5G services, to vacate the spectrum held by them within six months.

"...all the existing licensees of the spectrum in 3300-3400 Mhz band are required to vacate the spectrum held by them within six months' time from the date of issue of this notice," the Department of Telecom said in a notice.

The notice was issued to several companies, including Tata Communications, Bharti Airtel, Reliance Communications, Dishnet Wireless (Aircel) and ONGC, on March 27, 2018.

"Existing licencees in the 3300-3400 Mhz band should note that no new assignment will be made in this band as well as the existing licences will not be renewed further i.e., beyond 6 months' time from the date of issue of this notice," the notice said.

The government has given option to companies to migrate their services to other bands like 2.7-2.9 Ghz, 5 Ghz band etc.

"The existing wireless operating licencee of the frequency band 3300-3400 Mhz may note that this band is identified for implementation of International Mobile Telecommunuications," the notice said.

The notice said the government has sought recommendations of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) on the reserve price for auction of right to use spectrum and also on other associated conditions of the various frequency bands including the 3,300-3,400 Mhz band.

When contacted, Bharti Airtel spokesperson said, "We have already surrendered spectrum in the 3,300-3,400 Mhz band."