For regulating mobile towers in the urban areas the Deputy Chief Minister S K Modi on Tuesday said that the government would frame BIHAR COMMUNICATIONS TOWERS AND RELATED STRUCTURES’ RULE 2011. Purpose of this it is to regulate old mobile towers which have been set up without prior sanction and the new ones to be set up in within the urban areas. There already exists no rule in connection to the old towers.

Mr. Modi further commented that the new rule, if implemented, would help urban bodies earn Rs. 50,000 per tower towards registration and Rs. 15,000 per month for every tower. The mobile companies would have to pay Rs. 40, 000 per month towards registration in addition to Rs. 10,000 per month for towers withing the jurisdiction of the municipal board’s areas. Further in urban panchayat area, the companies would have to pay Rs.30, 000 per tower towards registration in addition to Rs.8, 000 per annum adding that the amount would be increased by 25 per cent every five years or the companies would be given concession if they pay the annual rent for five years at a go.

Mr. Modi also opined that there would be restriction in constructing towers within 100 metres radius from schools, colleges and hospitals, but otherwise top priority would be given to mobile companies willing to set up. Moreover, a recognized engineer would be required to give a certificate ensuring the safety of the construction and a certificate from companies for running generators with pollution control equipment will also be required.

BIHAR TO FRAME BILL FOR REGULATING MOBILE TOWERS

Report by Sumit