Ahead Of 5G Launch, Government Aims To Install 8 Lakh Mobile Towers To Boost Telecom Infrastructure

The government is planning to boost telecom infrastructure across the country ahead of the launch of the 5G network, with plans to add as many as 8 lakh new mobile towers over the next two years as well as ensuring that nearly 3 out of 4 are connected via optical fibre to increase data-carrying capacity.

The proposals were reviewed with the PMO as the government works to create a highly linked digital ecosystem that can support cutting-edge technology such as the internet of things (IoT), augmented and virtual reality, as well as autonomous driving and smart home solutions.

Additionally, according to a recent report, the government also intends to establish a National Fibre Authority (NFA), similar to other regulating bodies.

The much anticipated 5G spectrum auction is slated to take place between March and June this year, with services are likely to be deployed at the consumer level in 13 selected locations across the country on Independence Day. But ahead of that, the Centre is reportedly aiming to install around 8 lakh mobile towers to improve the infrastructure for 5G services.

As reported by the Times Of India, the pandemic has demonstrated how digital has become the backbone of our economy, assisting businesses and workplaces, as well as providing education from the comfort of one's home. Sources told TOI that as the internet becomes increasingly important for a range of tasks, the government wants to ensure that appropriate enablers are in place to support the growth of digital infrastructure.

The country currently has roughly 6.8 lakh towers, with the number expected to reach 15 lakh by the end of the fiscal year 2024, according to the report. By the end of March 2024, the density of towers will have increased from 0. 4 per 1,000 people to 1 per 1,000 people.

Meanwhile, Reliance Jio, which has placed a high value on 5G services, is claimed to have completed its 5G network coverage plan for approximately 1,000 cities across the country. It is said to be beefing up its fibre capacity and launching a test programme across many locations.

In India, roughly 34 per cent of towers have been fiberized at this time. By the end of March 2024, the goal is to increase this to 70 per cent.

However, as per the report, experts believe that as telecom companies' spectrum holdings grow stronger as a result of regular auctions, infrastructure expansion would require a new set of initiatives.

Avishkar Misra, who heads data science at TracFone Wireless, a Verizon subsidiary, told TOI: “With a robust 5G infrastructure, India will empower innovators to help create new businesses, services and experiences to benefit sectors across domains.”