Telcos Escalate Airport Connectivity Fight to Regulator
Overview
Major telecom operators, through the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI), have petitioned the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) to cap infrastructure costs at public venues like airports. The move comes amid a dispute over mobile connectivity at the new Navi Mumbai International Airport, where telcos allege monopolistic practices by the Adani Group-operated airport, leading to passenger complaints and a lack of service.
Telecom Operators Demand Cost Cap at Airports
The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI), representing leading telecom firms, has formally requested the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) to impose price ceilings on in-building mobile network infrastructure charges at public locations. This intervention is sought in the context of a deadlock with the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) over providing essential mobile connectivity.
Allegations of Market Failure and Monopoly
COAI alleges that the airport operator, managed by the Adani Group, is creating an exclusive, monopolistic arrangement for in-building telecom services. This, the association argues, constitutes a 'clear market failure.' Passengers have faced persistent issues with cellular connectivity since the airport opened on December 25, a situation directly linked to the absence of an agreement between NMIA and telecom providers on commercial terms.
Exorbitant Charges and Regulator's Role
Telecom operators revealed they were quoted charges as high as ₹92 lakh per month per operator by the airport for connectivity services. SP Kochhar, director general of COAI, urged TRAI to establish a cost-based pricing framework and price ceilings, particularly in instances where a single entity holds monopoly control over access infrastructure in public spaces like airports and metro stations. He stressed the need for public entities to grant right-of-way (RoW) permissions on a non-discriminatory basis or ensure shared infrastructure is provided transparently and at cost-oriented terms.
Airport Operator's Rebuttal
A spokesperson for NMIA countered that discussions have been regular and that offered in-building services are priced in line with industry standards. The airport operator highlighted the necessity of stringent security clearances and efficient maintenance in sensitive airport zones, suggesting that management by the airport operator with relevant security oversight is optimal. They argued that involving third-party providers could significantly increase response times for network issues, leading to passenger inconvenience.
A similar connectivity dispute has been ongoing with the Mumbai Metro Aqua line, affecting passengers for months.
