The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has advised all the telecom service providers (TSPs) to share in-building infrastructure in all government and public buildings. As per the DoT’s notification issued on November 18, 2019, all TSPs are advised to share the in-building infrastructure (systems, optical fibre, other cables, ducts etc) with other TSPs in all government and public buildings as per terms and conditions of their respective licenses.

Through the move, DoT aims at increasing competition and providing more choice to select a broadband service provider. Telcos have been asked to share the infrastructure across airports, railway stations, bus terminals, metro lines and hospitals, besides other public sector buildings.

The directive comes after the recommendation of Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) in 2018 regarding the sharing of in-building infrastructure in public places, commercial and residential complexes with other providers in a transparent, fair and non-discriminatory manner, with a minimum of three operators having a presence in the building.