Telcos Seek TRAI Intervention Over Connectivity and Charges at Navi Mumbai Airport

The dispute between telecom operators and Adani-backed Navi Mumbai International Airport Ltd (NMIAL) has escalated, with telcos seeking regulatory intervention. Operators have flagged concerns over the lack of mobile connectivity at the newly operational airport and the charges being demanded for telecom infrastructure.

The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) has written to TRAI on behalf of Vodafone Idea, Bharti Airtel and Reliance Jio and. The move comes amid growing passenger complaints about patchy or non-existent network coverage at the airport.

Operators’ Concerns and Regulatory Appeal

Telecom companies have asked TRAI to examine NMIAL’s refusal to grant Right of Way (RoW) permissions required for deploying their own infrastructure. RoW refers to approvals needed to lay cables and install telecom equipment such as towers, which are critical for network coverage.

According to the operators, NMIAL has implemented its own infrastructure and mandated a neutral host model, creating what they describe as a monopolistic arrangement. The telcos argue that such practices restrict fair competition and limit their ability to provide reliable connectivity.

Charges And Financial Implications

The operators claim that NMIAL is seeking ₹92 lakh per operator per month for access to its infrastructure. This aggregates to ₹44.16 crore annually from the three private operators combined.

Telcos have raised concerns that these charges are excessive and not aligned with cost-based pricing principles. They have urged TRAI to enforce a price ceiling on such levies to ensure fair and non-discriminatory access for all service providers.

Requests For Regulatory Mandates

In their representation, telecom companies have sought clear regulatory directions requiring all public entities, including airports, to allow RoW for operators to deploy their own networks. They have also requested that any shared infrastructure in public spaces be priced strictly on a cost-based framework.

The telcos believe these measures are essential to maintain service quality and prevent monopolistic practices. They have further asked TRAI to introduce guidelines that cap charges imposed by airports and metro operators on telecom providers.

Response To Airport’s Claims

The operators have rejected statements made by Navi Mumbai airport attributing connectivity issues to delays by telecom companies. They have termed such claims misleading and inconsistent with the facts of the dispute.

According to the telcos, the lack of connectivity stems from NMIAL’s restrictive policies and high charges, not from operator delays. This disagreement underscores the need for regulatory clarity to resolve the issue and ensure uninterrupted mobile services for passengers.

Read More: TRAI Seeks More Penal Powers to Impose Higher Fines on Telecom Operators.

Conclusion

The face-off between telecom operators and NMIAL highlights critical challenges in ensuring connectivity at major infrastructure hubs. Telcos have approached TRAI seeking intervention on RoW permissions, pricing norms and fair access to deploy networks.

With passenger complaints mounting and charges under scrutiny, the matter has significant implications for service quality and competition. Regulatory action will be key to addressing these concerns and safeguarding consumer interests.

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