Time To Get Rid Of The Signal Saboteurs

The rise of illegal mobile signal boosters poses a major challenge for India's telecom industry, causing network issues like call drops and slow data speeds

- LT GEN DR SP KOCHHAR

The mushrooming of illegal mobile signal boosters or repeaters, especially in urban locations, has emerged as a significant challenge for India's telecom industry. These devices, designed to amplify and distribute mobile tower signals in areas with poor connectivity, are commonly installed in buildings. While this issue is not talked about much in everyday discussions, the fact is - the widespread use of these unauthorised boosters is a leading cause of network issues such as call drops and slow data speeds, particularly in densely populated areas.

These devices are classified as "Wireless Telegraphy Apparatus" and "Wireless Transmitter" under the Indian Wireless Telegraph Act, 1933. The possession and sale of such equipment, without acquiring the necessary permissions under the Act and Rules framed therein, constitutes a breach of the Act's provisions and is a punishable offence. Despite this, these boosters are readily available in electronics markets and are installed by unauthorised entities in homes, offices, hostels, guest houses, etc.

While telecom service providers (TSPs) typically install repeaters or small cells after meticulous inspections in response to specific requests or identified needs, they ensure that such installations do not disrupt network coverage for individuals outside the distribution area. However, the unchecked illegal use of repeaters interferes with mobile networks, diminishing the experience for all users in the periphery.