The Hindu Business Line : DoT to simplify norms for spectrum allocation

TELECOM service providers may find getting clearance for allocation of radio frequency easier. The Department of Telecom has proposed to set a three months timeframe for the Standing Advisory Committee for Frequency Allocation (SACFA) for clearing applications for use of radio frequency.

According to the report of a high level committee set up by DoT to simplify procedures for SACFA clearance, once the applications from operators are dispatched with proper records, SACFA members can be strictly given a time-frame of 3 months only. In case, a response was not received from any SACFA member in the given time period, it will be assumed that they have no objection.

SACFA is a Government agency which has representations from the security agencies,

Defence Ministry, Aviation Ministry and the wireless planning and co-ordination committee. SACFA is responsible for giving clearance to operators for setting up cell sites, communication towers and spectrum usage.

According to the committee, defence and airports authority have been delaying clearance in the past.

DoT's committee has said that SACFA meetings must be organised once a month. Any member asking for additional time will be discouraged, however, in some cases, additional time of one month may be given.

The committee has also proposed that communications towers up to 40 meters high could be given automatic clearance by the Airports Authority. At present, automatic clearance is given for mast height up to 30 meters.

Mobile operators have been complaining of delays in SACFA clearance which affects their rollout plan. "Even in cases where radio frequency has been earmarked, there is a delay of six months before the spectrum is released to the operator. This results in huge losses for the company. If the recommendations of the committee are accepted then there will be at least a time-frame to work within," said a cellular operator.

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