Vodafone India has formally requested the Department of Telecommunications and regulator TRAI for immediate allotment of the 1800MHz spectrum, which it had won in auctions. With only seven weeks left, when, as per DoT, the presently deployed spectrum in 900MHz is to be replaced by 900MHz won in auctions. Hence, timely earmarking of the spectrum won is essential for the company to replace existing spectrum which is in full operational use in Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata Service Areas.
In places like Delhi, the quantum of 900MHz will, in fact, get reduced from 8MHz to 5MHz. Further, in all circles the frequency spots for 900MHz and 1800MHz are changing. In such a scenario, it is imperative to deploy the 1800MHz spectrum won in auctions first which will then enable release of the existing 900MHz. Despite several reminders, the spectrum has not been earmarked till now.
Under the current situation, with very little time left and spectrum in 1800MHz not yet earmarked, any such replacement of 900MHz on the prescribed date is bound to considerably impact services despite best efforts by the company even on 24X7 basis. The extensive robust network of Vodafone India has thousands of sites, IBS and repeaters. This changeover under normal circumstances could take at least six months after the earmarking of frequencies.
The company has requested DoT to earmark the spectrum without any delay and further take up this issue of changeover in totality on an immediate basis such that there is no loss/inconvenience caused to public with regard to non-availability of service. This will include continuation on existing in use 900MHz frequencies for at least six months from the date of earmarking of 1800MHz spectrum, which is a necessity.
