India’s telecom regulator, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), is examining a dispute involving major telecom operators and the newly opened Navi Mumbai International Airport regarding pricing and access for mobile network deployment at the airport. The inquiry reflects broader concerns about connectivity, fair pricing, and infrastructure access at critical public facilities. What Triggered the Probe Industry body Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) approached TRAI seeking regulatory intervention after facing challenges in deploying network equipment around the airport. Operators allege that the costs and conditions associated with establishing mobile coverage — particularly in-building solutions (IBS) — are unclear, non-transparent, or potentially disproportionate. COAI’s letter to TRAI raised multiple issues, including right-of-way permissions and pricing concerns, prompting the regulator to seek details on past agreements and pricing structures. Core Issues in the Dispute Rights of Way and Access Telecom firms argue they have encountered difficulties securing rights-of-way (RoW) and access permissions needed to install their own infrastructure. Operators believe that airports qualify as public entities under telecom regulations and should grant licensed telecom service providers access on a non-discriminatory basis. Pricing and Monopoly Concerns The airport and its affiliates currently offer a centralized network solution managed by a third… Read MoreBusiness Archives – Trak.in – Indian Business of Tech, Mobile & Startups
