Telecom operators publish mobile network coverage maps in accordance with TRAI mandate

The initiative was in accordance with TRAI's revised regulations known as 'The Standards of Quality of Service of Access (Wireline and Wireless) and Broadband (Wireline and Wireless) Services Regulations, 2024 (6 of 2024)' that became effective from October 1, 2024, across the country for wireline and wireless services alike.

Hyderabad: In a landmark step toward greater transparency and consumer empowerment, mobile network coverage maps have been published by the major Telecom Service Providers (TSP). This step, after all, was brought into force by the mandate of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) to aid users make informed choices regarding mobile and broadband services.

The initiative was in accordance with TRAI’s revised regulations known as ‘The Standards of Quality of Service of Access (Wireline and Wireless) and Broadband (Wireline and Wireless) Services Regulations, 2024 (6 of 2024)’ that became effective from October 1, 2024, across the country for wireline and wireless services alike.

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According to the new rules, all service providers implementing wireless access would be required to post service-wise geospatial coverage maps on their websites. These maps should clearly offer a visual representation of areas were wireless voice or broadband services could be subscribed for under a standard format issued by TRAI. The final date for publication has been set for April 1, 2025.

In the spirit of common execution, TRAI directed extensive technical guidelines for format and structure of the maps via Direction no. RG-17/(3)/2022-QoS, dated November 22, 2024. This document is accessible via the official TRAI website.

Following all compliances, the TSPs have published their mobile coverage maps as stated below:

• Bharti Airtel – Coverage Map
• Reliance Jio (RJIL) – Coverage Map
• Vodafone Idea (Vi) – Coverage Map
• BSNL and MTNL – Yet to publish their coverage maps.

In an effort to ease access, TRAI also provided the links to all operator coverage maps under the “Mobile Coverage Map” section available at its website (www.trai.gov.in) under the path: Consumer Info → Mobile Coverage Map → [Service Provider].

These coverage maps are packed with user-friendly features that include:

• Standard color scheme for easy understanding
• Technology-wise filters (2G, 3G, 4G, or 5G)
• Location-based search and navigation
• Toggle for selecting your technology preference

The users may also provide their feedback and/or flag any coverage discrepancies through integrated tools within the maps for which TRAI observed that real-world coverage would vary, especially inside buildings, due to series of dynamic environmental factors.

Apart from consumer benefits, these maps will eventually facilitate national interests by aiding in planning for telecom infrastructure and determining whether any policy or regulatory measures should be adopted.

Consumers requiring further information or clarifications may reach out to Shri Tejpal Singh, Advisor (QoS-I), TRAI, by sending an email to adv-qos1@trai.gov.in or by contacting +91-11-20907759.