1 week ago

Telangana Adopts Telecom Act, Bars Property Taxes on Networks

Telangana has adopted new national rules for building and protecting telecom networks.

These rules replace the state’s earlier Right of Way orders from 2021.

Local authorities cannot charge property tax or similar fees on telecom equipment placed on, above or below land.

Applications to install telecom infrastructure must now go through an online government portal.

Government offices and local bodies must appoint officers to manage these applications.

BharatNet projects will not have to pay certain charges for using public property.

Workers must use the Call Before u Dig app before digging.

Damaging important telecom equipment can lead to prison, a large fine, or both.

The state will regularly review progress and clear pending applications by September 30, 2026.

Key facts

State order: Government Order Ms. No. 3 issued by Telangana’s Information Technology, Electronics and Communications department.
New framework: Telecommunications Act, 2023, and Telecommunications (Right of Way) Rules, 2024.
Tax exemption: Telecom networks on, over or under property cannot be included in property-tax assessments or charged related levies.
Online processing: All Right of Way applications must be processed exclusively through the Department of Telecommunications Telecom e-Services portal.
BharatNet relief: Public entities cannot charge BharatNet implementing agencies or contractors fees, rent, annuity or bank guarantees for infrastructure on public property.
Excavation rule: The Call Before u Dig app is mandatory for all excavation work.
Maximum penalty: Damage to critical telecom infrastructure may bring up to three years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to ₹2 crore, or both.
Review deadlines: Nodal officers must be onboarded within 30 days, while pending applications must be cleared by September 30, 2026.

deccanchronicle.com · 1 week ago