The government has relaxed electromagnetic field (EMF) rules for 5G networks, allowing telecom operators to cover more areas with fewer base stations and reducing costs and carbon footprint. The revised rules increase the power density requirement for 5G base tower stations from one watt to five watts per square metre, allowing signals to travel longer distances. However, these rules are still more stringent than global guidelines. The new rules will come into effect on February 1, 2025.
The International Commission for Non-Ionising Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) that advises the World Health Organisation and government agencies on EMF health and environmental effects, recommends 10 watts per square metre. Local telcos have been seeking rules in line with these guidelines, citing studies showing no adverse health effects from wireless technologies.
Indian telecom operators have pointed that no EMF-related health effects have been observed in the country that have followed ICNIRP guidelines over the years. They suggested that the current EMF rules in India are putting some challenges for 5G technology, and the industry has been requesting relaxation to improve service quality and facilitate rapid expansion.
The new rules will help telecom operators save on some capex costs, as under existing guidelines they have to put up an estimated 40 per cent more sites to cover the same area.
