Trai Establishes Rating Platform to Evaluate Quality of Digital Connectivity in Properties

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is introducing a rating system to evaluate properties based on digital connectivity quality. This initiative aims to encourage property managers to enhance digital experiences for users. Properties will receive star ratings, from one to five, depending on their connectivity quality. Categories include residential, government, commercial, public areas, sports arenas, and transport corridors.

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Digital Connectivity Rating Framework

Despite widespread 4G LTE and emerging 5G networks, indoor connectivity remains problematic. TRAI emphasises collaboration between service providers and property managers to address this issue. A rating platform and IT system will be established by TRAI for managing property ratings. The Digital Connectivity Rating Agency (DCRA) will assess properties and assign scores based on specific criteria.

The regulations take effect from October 25, 2024. They are crucial as most data usage occurs indoors or in public spaces, with data consumption increasing rapidly due to 5G technology. "These regulations are being notified to encourage and nudge property managers for providing good digital connectivity experience to their existing and prospective customers," stated TRAI.

India's internet landscape shows 927.56 million wireless subscribers compared to 42.04 million wired users as of June 2024. This highlights the reliance on wireless networks for internet access. The regulations were finalised after a consultation process initiated on September 27, 2023, inviting stakeholder feedback.

Implementation and Guidelines

TRAI will authorise a rating platform for managing digital connectivity ratings. Entities meeting eligibility criteria can register as a DCRA through this platform. Property managers seeking ratings must register and pay specified fees. DCRAs will disclose fees and terms before starting any rating activity.

Telecom providers cannot form exclusive agreements with property managers for digital infrastructure development or access. Model Building Bye Laws (MBBL) from the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs will guide digital infrastructure provisions where state or Union Territory laws lack them.

Detailed guidelines for scoring and processes will be issued separately under these regulations. TRAI will announce when the rating platform becomes operational. Until then, an alternative mechanism may be provided for property ratings.

These regulations apply to property managers seeking ratings voluntarily or under legal requirements, DCRAs evaluating properties, and service providers collaborating with property managers for digital infrastructure development or access.