Telecom Operators Ask DoT to Step In on Connectivity Issues at Adani-Owned Navi Mumbai Airport

India’s leading telecom operators have urged the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) to intervene regarding connectivity concerns at the Adani Group-managed Navi Mumbai International Airport, as per The Economic Times report.  

The operators allege that the airport authority is blocking regular access to set up telecom infrastructure and imposing a mandatory agreement involving steep charges. 

Dispute Over Exclusive Access and ₹92 Lakh Monthly Charge 

In a letter dated December 30, 2025, the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI), which represents Bharti Airtel, Reliance Jio and Vodafone Idea, alleged that Navi Mumbai International Airport Limited (NMIAL) has denied Right of Way (RoW) permissions for independent infrastructure deployment.  

Instead, operators have been told to use the airport’s in-house network system by paying ₹92 lakh per month each — totalling ₹44.16 crore annually for 4 service providers. 

Operators claim this requirement exceeds usual expenditure for installing in-building solutions (IBS) and breaches telecom regulations. According to the Telecommunications Act, 2023 and RoW Rules, 2024, public entities must provide non-discriminatory, time-bound access for telecom infrastructure deployment. COAI has now sought urgent action from the DoT to uphold those provisions. 

License and Neutral Host Claims Under Scrutiny 

COAI’s letter also highlights that NMIAL holds a Category-B Virtual Network Operator (VNO) licence and has allegedly granted itself exclusive telecom rights, acting under the label of a “neutral host.”  

According to the laws governing VNOs, such exclusivity is not permitted. The representation warns that this control erodes consumer choice and restricts operator competition within the airport premises. 

Read More: Government Extends Telecom Equipment Security Certification Scheme, Slashes Lab Fees! 

Background of Similar Cases 

This is not the first instance where telecom operators have raised concerns about restricted infrastructure access. Earlier in the year, similar objections were raised against Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MMRCL) for engaging with one specific network provider.  

Telcos had also approached authorities at other airports, seeking direct permissions to install IBS without intermediary networks. 

Conclusion 

Telecom operators are calling on the DoT to ensure equitable access at Navi Mumbai Airport for independent installation of telecom networks. The dispute focuses on compliance with existing telecom laws regarding RoW permissions and unauthorised exclusivity arrangements. 

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