India doubles 5G BTS EMF power density limit to 10 W/m²
TL;DR: India will raise the electromagnetic field power density limit for 5G base tower stations to 10 watts per square metre from 5 watts, with the new rules taking effect next month. The change aligns the limit with the level recommended by ICNIRP and is expected to let operators cover larger areas from each site.
India has announced that it will double the permitted electromagnetic field power density for 5G base tower stations to 10 watts per square metre from 5 watts next month. The change brings India’s limit to the level recommended by the International Commission for Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection.
The higher limit allows 5G signals to travel further from each tower site. That can increase coverage per site and reduce the number of towers needed for network expansion.
India had previously applied stricter limits than the 10 watts per square metre recommended by ICNIRP. The country had used a limit of 1 watt per square metre for some time before revising it to 5 watts last year.
The change is relevant to Indian mobile operators including Vodafone Idea, Bharti Airtel, and Reliance Jio. Vodafone Idea is still rolling out 5G, while Bharti Airtel and Reliance Jio may benefit through lower incremental capital expenditure and more efficient use of existing sites.
Relevant questions
What is India's new EMF limit for 5G base tower stations?
India will raise the permitted EMF power density for 5G base tower stations to 10 watts per square metre from 5 watts. The new rules take effect next month.
Why does the higher EMF limit matter for 5G rollout in India?
A higher permitted power density lets signals travel further from each site. That can improve coverage and reduce the number of towers needed for expansion.
Which Indian operators could benefit from the EMF rule change?
The change could benefit Vodafone Idea, Bharti Airtel, and Reliance Jio. The report says Vodafone Idea may find it particularly helpful during its 5G rollout.
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