Telecom service providers will soon be able to use a single-window clearance system for setting up towers and base stations, and for spectrum. This will lead to a faster rollout of telecom networks across the country.
Currently, telecom service providers require as many as 18 separate clearances from the Standing Advisory Committee for Frequency Allocation, which includes representatives of the aviation ministry, the defence ministry, the wireless planning cell of the department of telecom, security and intelligence agencies, coastal security and the lighthouse body.
Telecom operators said the move was long overdue as a high-level DoT committee had recommended that SACFA clearances be simplified as early as August, 2004.
According to sources, the government wants a single-window clearance facility implemented as bids for using the universal service obligation fund for infrastructure sharing in rural areas are slated to be floated in February-end.
"The government does not want its target of 250 million telephone users by 2007 to be derailed on account of clearance delays," a source in the telecom industry told Business Standard.
Under a single-window system, once applications are submitted with proper records, SACFA members will be given a deadline to grant clearances. "If member agencies fail to respond within this period, it shall be considered that they have no objection," DoT sources said.
Telecom operators will also get automatic clearance for setting up communication towers up to a height of 40 metres. At present, the approval of the Airports Authority of India is needed for setting up towers that are taller than 30 metres.
This plan also envisages meetings between cellular operators and SACFA members on a monthly basis to sort out all outstanding issues regarding clearances.