The Government of India has approved new electromagnetic radiation norms for mobile-phone towers and handsets, as reported by The Hindu. Starting September 1, the new norms will come into effect. The Department of Telecom (DoT) has also been working with Telecom operators to implement the new norms. The report also states that non-compliance of EMF standards, will result in a penalty of Rs 5 lakh, to be levied per base transceiver station per service provider. Apart from that, mobile handsets with the Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) values of 1.6 watt/ kg averaged over 1 gram of human tissue will be allowed in India, which is 50% more stringent than current norms. Presently, mobile handsets are compliant with 2 watt/ kg averaged over 10 gram of human tissue. From September next year, mobile phones with new SAR values will be permitted to be manufactured or imported in the country. Guidelines for issue of clearance for installation of mobile towers DOT has also issued guidelines (.pdf) for issue of clearance for installation of mobile towers. The clearance now requires a: Copy of Access Service License / IP Registration Certificate from DOT Copy of SACFA clearance for the said location issued by WPC Wing of Department of Telecom. Other clearance at State / Local authority level: from Pollution Control Board for DG Sets; from Fire Safety Department, if applicable; and from State Environment & Forest Dept. where necessary. Copy of NOC from Building Owner. Nominal one time Administrative Fee as may be decided by the Local body to recover its costs on…
