The Hindu Business Line : SC seeks explanation on `unregulated' mobile towers

THE Supreme Court of India has sought explanation from all the mobile phone operators and various government and semi-government agencies over the issue of alleged `illegal' and `unregulated' constructions of mobile phone towers on top of buildings across the country.

According to a press release issued by Karma Jyot Seva Trust, which had filed the appeal, the apex court has given the operators four weeks' time to respond. The trust had filed its petition in public interest under Article 32 of the Constitution of India, in the interest of public at large in entire territorial jurisdiction of Union of India.

Ms Sheetal Agarwal, lawyer representing the trust, said, "Supreme Court has seen merit in the efforts and comprehensive research undertaken by my client Karma Jyot Seva Trust, the volunteers of which dedicated themselves to the cause of researching and educating the masses about the menace of these illegal constructions of mobile phone towers on public and private buildings.

"Apart from the possible physical damage that these towers may unleash, the people living in and around such installations are susceptible to critical health hazards and the Court has taken appropriate action to bring the culprits to book."

The trust has conducted a detailed survey, which has revealed gross deficiencies, on the part of mobile companies, thereby creating an alarming situation, threatening the safe habitation and health of the public, the release said.

"Karma Jyot Seva Trust had sought the intervention of the Supreme Court for laying down certain guidelines, rules and regulations or an appropriate scientific mechanism governing, monitoring and regulating the erection of these mobile towers," said Ms Agarwal.

Mobile phone operators in the country such as Reliance, Airtel, Hutch, Idea, BPL, Escotel, Spice, MTNL and BSNL will have to submit their response.

World over, there has been an intense debate over the possible health hazards posed by the electromagnetic radiations, which include grave health problems such as cancer.

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