Trai recommends free spectrum for emergency communication network

Telecom regulator Trai recommended allocation of 10 megahertz of paired 4G spectrum at no cost basis for setting up a nationwide network to provide communication service at the time of disaster and other emergencies.

The authority also recommended 20 Mhz of additional spectrum in 450-470 Mhz frequency range which is estimated to provide almost double coverage compared to signals transmitted in existing band as well as deep inside buildings where mobile signals often fail to reach.

"The Authority recommends that 2x10 MHz of dedicated spectrum should be allocated nationwide to the SPV (special purpose vehicle) on no-cost basis for LTE based broadband PPDR (Public Protection and Disaster Relief) networks," Trai said in a recommendation today.

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) has recommended forming of special purpose vehicle (SPV) under Home Ministry to plan, coordinate and steer the nationwide Broadband PPDR communication network implementation and its subsequent operation.

The regulator has suggested that an advisory committee should be formed which should include representatives from all disciplines of public safety, state government, central government and telecom ministry to provide domain specific advice to the SPV for conception, implementation, operation and