TRAI Mandates Geospatial Network: Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), under its new guidelines, decided to increase transparency in communication services. It now calls on telecom operators to publish very specific geospatial maps detailing network availability and signal intensity using different technologies on the website.
Color Requirements for Coverage Maps
TRAI requires that the coverage maps have geospatial data for 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G. Service providers shall use the same color code scheme as prescribed for distinguishing between the different technologies. Each of the maps shall mark the areas that are above the minimum signal strength threshold while the areas below the threshold shall be classified as no-coverage zones.
Minimum Signal Strength Thresholds for Each Technology
TRAI has defined particular signal strength thresholds to ensure consistent coverage representation:
- 2G: RSSI ≥ -95 dBm
- 3G: RSCP ≥ -99 dBm
- 4G: RSRP ≥ -110 dBm
- 5G: RSRP ≥ -110 dBm
These thresholds represent signal strength with 50% load on the network capacity, ensuring realistic assessments of coverage.
Key Features of the Maps
Telecom operators must implement multiple functionalities in the coverage maps to provide high usability.
Base Layer. Maps should present information, including street names, names of villages, boundaries of the districts and State/UT.
Technology Toggle: Users should be able to switch between 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G or access an aggregate map.
- Search Functionality: A search bar should allow location lookups by state, city, village name, or latitude and longitude.
- Legend: A legend must explain the color-coding or other symbols on the map.
Optional features like zoom functionality, a home tab, full-screen mode, and a “my location” feature may also enhance user experience.
Placement and Navigation
TRAI emphasizes simplicity in accessing these maps. Telecom providers must place the map on their website’s landing page for single-click navigation. Additionally, a dedicated navigation bar tab should direct users to the coverage map page.
Verification and Accuracy
The operators can create these using real-time measurements in the fields or models that predict coverage. If using prediction tools, the providers should cross-verify the data with some samples in the real field. They should apply correction factors to adjust the predicted coverage based on actual user experience so it’s accurate.
Coverage Map Update
TRAI demands the operators of updating the maps on an ongoing basis. Monthly or after the significant change when network cells are commissioned or decommissioned is always required. The revisions will incorporate the latest network conditions as reflected in the maps.
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Benefits for Users
This initiative empowers users to make informed choices about telecom services. With clear and accurate maps, customers can better assess network quality and coverage in their areas. Additionally, the guidelines promote healthy competition among operators, encouraging better service quality.
Conclusion
TRAI’s directive sets a significant milestone in ensuring transparency in the telecom sector. These geospatial coverage maps will bridge the gap between customer expectations and service realities.
