Spectrum allocation delay may disrupt mobile services for Vodafone and Airtel users

Airtel and Vodafone subscribers in Delhi and Kolkata may face service disruptions as requests by the companies to extend the deadline to switch to new airwaves have been rejected, according to an  Economic Times report. The telecom department had allotted 1800 MHz spectrum to Bharti Airtel, Vodafone, Idea Cellular, Reliance Jio Infocomm and Uninor during the February auctions this year. However, it was conducted eight months later than expected, giving them little time to reconfigure their existing networks. As of now, Bharti Airtel and Vodafone India use the 900 MHz networks in the metros which are nearing expiration. Both operators needed six months’ extension in order to switch users to the new frequencies. According to ET, the telecom department has now rejected their request as any extension of airwaves will lead to an increase in the time frame of the allotment, which is typically for 20 years. The officials told ET that this can cause temporary disruptions in the services, but they would have to “manage it.” Finally, it’s the consumers who would ultimately bear the brunt thanks to the negligence of the officials. According to the ET report, Bharti Airtel has received 1800 MHz in 15 circles during the spectrum auction in February 2014, however, the operator is yet to receive the 900 MHz spectrum in Delhi, Kolkata and Mumbai. On the other hand, Vodafone India has the 1800 MHz band in all nine telecom circles and a portion of 900 MHz airwaves from its previous tenure.