Telecom service providers must apply for regularisation of assets by Mar 31

 

 

 

Maharashtra Government has directed existing telecom service providers to apply for regularisiation of their telecom assets by March 31, 2023, as same would help in effective mapping of the telecom network. A notification issued by General Administration Department (GAD) mentioned that post the deadline, in case the telecom operator failed to apply for any of particular asset then same would be liable for removal by respective local authorities. On Friday, the State while issuing the notification mentioned about aligning its telecom policy with the one notified by Central Government. To ensure hassle-free approval, Maharashtra Government has set up Mahasanchar, an on-line portal, wherein telecom service providers can submit applications. Reasoning that the entire telecom service infrastructure in State needs to be mapped, the notification asks companies to apply for approval of pre-existing telecom towers and other assets related to their service.

 

Post amendment by Central Government the Department of Information Technology released the telecom policy. However on 17/8/022 Central Government issued a notification laying new rules in Indian Telegraph Right of Way Rules, 2016, incorporating new norms for facilitating faster rollout of 5G network in the country. In case telecom companies are desirous of expanding their footprint then they should apply on Mahasanchar portal six months prior to starting the work. For erecting the 5G network, the existing street furniture can be fully tapped and clearance would be as per GSR:635 (E) of Central Government notification about Right of way. The 5G Network Policy Group (Task Force) will take decision from time to time as per laid down policy. The application seeking permission for erecting towers for 5G service has to be done on gatishaktisanchar.gov.in, barring the one where forest land is required to be diverted for commercial purpose. As to regularisation, one major point in State notification is that after notifying the new rules, service providers have to submit application within a period of three months.

 

Till date, the Regional Office authorised to grant approval for telecom towers, no local body would have any power to take any action for its removal till application is rejected. The approval for telecom towers would remain valid for a period of five-years from date of erection. As to optical fiber cable (OFC), the permission would remain valid for period of 15-years or till the date of license life of telecom company. A fees of Rs 1000 per kilometer for laying cable through duct and Rs 10,000 for regularisation of mobile towers.