DoT clamps down on illegal mobile network boosters in Delhi

Several locations in New Delhi faced raids recently by Wireless Monitoring Organization, Department of Telecom (DoT) and International Monitoring Station along with a joint team of local administration and mobile operators, under the direction Devendra Rai, IRRS, Engineering-in-Charge, Wireless Monitoring Organization, DoT. The raid, conducted in Hauz Khas (February 22, 2021) and Connaught Place (February 18-19, 2021), took down illegal mobile signal repeaters installed in homes, shops, and other commercial establishments. Action was also taken against individuals who installed them. A total of 70 illegal repeaters were removed and 18 notices were given to remove the identified ones with immediate effect in New Delhi.

Speaking on the inspection Devendra Kumar Rai said, "In 2020, we had removed approximately 400 illegal mobile signal boosters. We started an awareness drive from 18.02.2021 to 24.02.2021. This campaign is against illegal mobile signal boosters which lead to call drops and lowering of mobile network connectivity. We have started an awareness campaign through which we are making people aware not to use illegal mobile signal boosters. During the campaign, people voluntarily surrendered repeaters and reported about improvement in network connectivity in their areas.”

According to Wireless Monitoring Organisation (WMO) of DoT, installation, possession or selling of illegal repeater is punishable offence as per Indian Wireless Telegraphy Act, 1933 and Indian Telegraph Act, 1885. Heavy fines may be imposed on owners of several premises who have installed these illegal repeaters.

Illegal mobile signal repeaters have become a major nuisance and are one of the biggest reasons for customers facing network issues like call drops and low data speeds. These illegal repeaters are installed by individuals/establishments at homes/offices/PG/Guest houses to boost mobile signals. These illegal equipment interfere with all mobile networks, impacts signal quality and degrades network experience in the entire area. Mobile operators invest heavily in acquisition of spectrum & network rollout to enhance customer experience however the illegal boosters cause interference with the mobile network. Authorities were called to crack down on these installations and take strict action.