Govt directs Adani Group to allow telcos to deploy networks at Navi Mumbai Airport

• DoT urges Adani to let telcos install networks at Navi Mumbai airport
• Telecom Act 2023 mandates fair Right of Way for service providers
• Timely network deployment seen as key for airport operations

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The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has asked the Adani Airport Holdings Limited (AAHL) to allow telecom service providers to deploy their own network infrastructure at the Navi Mumbai International Airport, citing provisions under the Telecommunications Act, 2023.

In a letter dated February 2026 to AAHL CEO Arun Bansal, the DoT said it had received a representation from the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) highlighting difficulties faced by licensed telecom service providers (TSPs) in establishing telecom infrastructure at the airport, which is being developed and operated by Navi Mumbai International Airport Limited. Moneycontrol has seen a copy of the letter.

According to the representation dated December 30, 2025, Right of Way (RoW) permissions have not been granted to telcos seeking to install their own equipment inside the airport premises. Instead, operators have been asked to use an exclusive in-building telecom network, with charges that industry players have described as unreasonably high.

The DoT clarified that under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, the Navi Mumbai International Airport qualifies as a “public entity” for the purposes of the Act and the rules framed under it. As such, it falls within the statutory framework governing the grant of RoW permissions to licensed facility providers, including telecom operators.

The department underscored that the Telecommunications Act, 2023, read with the Telecommunications (Right of Way) Rules, 2024, mandates a non-discriminatory, fair and transparent process for handling RoW applications. It also prescribes timelines and conditions under which such permissions must be processed.

“In view of the above, you are requested to ensure compliance with the provisions of the Telecommunications Act, 2023 and the Telecommunications (Right of Way) Rules, 2024 while processing applications for grant of RoW permissions within your premises,” the DoT said in the communication, urging AAHL to facilitate the establishment of telecom infrastructure in accordance with the statutory framework.

The move is significant as the Navi Mumbai airport — one of India’s largest greenfield airport projects — prepares for operationalisation. Industry executives say timely deployment of independent telecom networks is critical to ensuring seamless connectivity for passengers, airlines and airport operations from day one.