TRAI issues directive to telecom operators to publish detailed network coverage

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has issued a directive to leading telecom operators of India, including BSNL, Vodafone Idea, Jio, and Airtel, to publish detailed telecom network coverage maps on their websites. This initiative is a move to improve telecom services in India and aims to enhance the quality of service (QoS) and empower the country’s 1.2 billion mobile users to make informed decisions while choosing or switching telecom operators.

The new rule requires telcos to display geographic maps showcasing their 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G network coverage. This will allow users to evaluate which operator provides the best connectivity in their area, simplifying the process of selecting a new SIM card or switching service providers.

Only a few companies, until now, have shared such detailed coverage information, leaving users with limited knowledge about network performance in specific localities.

What this mandate means for users

TRAI’s directive emphasizes the importance of transparent network information for ensuring a satisfactory user experience. By accessing coverage maps, users can assess the level of service provided by each operator in their region. TRAI has stressed that reliable mobile network coverage is essential for maintaining high-quality telecom services.

Telecom operators are given a time frame till April 1, 2025 to comply with the TRAI network coverage directive. The coverage maps must be prominently displayed on their websites’ homepages with a clear logo for user convenience. Furthermore, these maps need to be regularly updated to reflect real-time network changes.