Consumers can pick their network as private telcos publish coverage maps

Telecom

In a game-changing move for mobile phone subscribers, Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea have published detailed mobile network coverage maps on their websites, allowing consumers to pick the service that suits them the best.

The private telecom operators move, in response to  a Telecom Regulatory Authority of India  (TRAI) order, allows consumers to check real-time signal strength and service availability in their area, helping them make informed decisions before purchasing a new SIM or switching providers.

Public sector operators BSNL and MTNL are yet to publish their coverage maps.

The revised TRAI guidelines on quality of service, which came into effect on October 1, required all wireless service providers to publish geospatial coverage maps by April 1.

"In a significant move to enhance transparency and empower mobile subscribers, Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) have published mobile network coverage maps on their websites, as per the mandate given by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI)," the regulator said in a statement on April 9 evening.

The coverage maps display wireless voice and broadband network availability across India and service quality based on the user’s location.

The maps include support for 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G technologies, with simple tools to search by location or enable GPS-based viewing. Consumers can toggle between technologies to see specific coverage types in their area of interest.

Each service provider’s coverage map is accessible on its website and TRAI has also consolidated these links on its platform.

"Users can visit the TRAI website at www.trai.gov.in and navigate to Consumer Info > Mobile Coverage Map to select their preferred service provider," the statement said.

Designed for ease of use, the maps feature a standard colour scheme, intuitive navigation tools and interactive options that allow users to explore coverage across urban and rural regions.

A feedback feature has also been built in, enabling users to report discrepancies directly to their telecom provider.

TRAI has cautioned that actual signal experience may vary, especially indoors, due to environmental and network-specific factors.

Beyond empowering subscribers, these maps offer a broader view of nationwide telecom coverage. This data can support planners, businesses, and policymakers roll out digital services, infrastructure projects, and policy initiatives with greater precision.

(Disclosure: Moneycontrol is a part of the Network18 group. Network18 is controlled by Independent Media Trust, of which Reliance Industries is the sole beneficiary.)