What is the procedure for mobile tower installation?

The procedure for mobile tower installation is an expansive, complicated and multi-step process. It requires various levels of approval from different government agencies. With the rise in mobile phone usage at an alarming rate, more and more towers need to be installed. There are also several other factors involved that require multi-level permissions. There are not enough locations in the metro cities. Many remote areas also have a dearth of spaces conducive to the installation of mobile towers. Nowadays residential spaces are also eligible for mobile tower installation. So, an escalating number of permits are required every day. The rules are stringent at their best and a lot of protocols are involved. Herein comes the role of a reliable company that takes care of all the procedures, and permits and takes the necessary steps in installing the mobile towers judiciously. 

Why is more mobile infrastructure coming up in residential areas?

As already mentioned, there is a shortage of space for mobile towers. Most remote areas are now cluttered with them. That leaves only the residential spaces for use. Residential complexes often can avail vast amounts of monetary compensation as well as many times free data, Wi-Fi and other benefits. All this compels many to permit setting up mobile infrastructure. Also, recently there has been a relaxation in laws about mobile infrastructure setup. A few years back, many thought it was illegal to install mobile towers in residential areas. This is very wrong. The new right-of-way rule of telecommunications states that no additional permissions are required for setting up mobile towers on private property. Only that, they have to be at least a 100m radius away from a hospital or an educational institute. The tower also has to be on the rooftop of the building. If this basic rule is followed, approval from the landlord of a residential complex is enough. The only necessary documentation required is from various levels of urban development, municipalities or municipal corporations.

What kind of documentation is required for approval of installation?

Basic paperwork involving the site plan, engineer’s certificate, occupancy certificate, drawing of the tower, elevation details, a letter from the municipality, a letter from the fire department, documentation stating adherence to the Environment Act 1986 etc. A document stating legal responsibility in the event of an accident or a serious health issue also needs to be submitted.

There is a strict time frame within which the construction following the approval has to be completed. Within a month of obtaining permission, the construction of mobile towers should start and be completed within 2 years. Within 3 months of completion, it should be registered with the gazette officer. Regular repair and maintenance tasks of the towers are also an added responsibility.

There are many stringent rules and regulations when it comes to mobile tower erection. At present, however, there has been a relaxation in rules and this makes it all the easier than before.