DoT Issues Show Cause Notices to Vodafone Idea, Adani Data Networks for 5G Rollout Delays: Report

Vodafone Idea (Vi) and Adani Group’s Adani Data Networks have been issued show-cause notices by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) as to why fines should not be levied on them for failing to meet Minimum Rollout Obligations (MRO) related to 5G Spectrum in India. The DoT has also sent notices to both companies, asking them to furnish the reasons for the delay in the 5G rollout and the timelines by which they will launch services, according to an FE Report.

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Also Read: Vodafone Idea 5G Live at Select Places in Pune and Delhi

Penalties

Vodafone Idea may be facing a fine of around Rs 14 crore, and Adani Data Networks could be slapped with a penalty of about Rs 5-6 crore, the report quoted officials as saying.

Delayed 5G Rollouts

The obligations, requiring commercial 5G service launches in both metro and non-metro circles within the first year, have not been met by either company more than a year later. Both companies are yet to launch 5G services commercially even in a single city in the country. Adani Data Networks plans to deploy its spectrum for private captive networks for its data usage in ports and logistics, power generation, etc., rather than consumer mobility.

Footer 5G

In August 2023, Vodafone Idea claimed to have made minimal investments in two out of 17 circles but has yet to launch services commercially. So far, there is no official 5G announcement from Vodafone Idea.

However, the footer on Vi’s website says, “Get ready to experience the potential of the Vi 5G network in India with 5G live at select places in Pune and Delhi. Seamless connectivity with Vi 5G ready SIM.” TelecomTalk reported the same in November 2023.

Vodafone Idea on its website also listed eligible prepaid and postpaid plans for availing its 5G services in the select locations where 5G services are available.