Notion that 5G is dangerous is incorrect: Sterlite Technologies CTO

Telecom providers follow extremely stringent regulations, says Badri Gomatam.

The Delhi High Court quashed last week a petition by film actor Juhi Chawla against rolling out 5G technology in India. People should not worry about the threat from radiation, said Badri Gomatam, Chief Technology Officer at Sterlite Technologies, in an interview to Megha Manchanda.

Q. Is there a real threat in terms of radiation from 5G towers?

No, we don’t believe that there are any material issues on this front. All emission standards are well defined by global standards organizations. Every Radio Unit (RU), including 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G or WiFi access point, needs to meet very stringent emission requirements which are laid by several governmental regulatory agencies. Any failure to achieve these emissions standards will render the product inoperable.

RUs have to meet the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) requirements (in the US), TEC/MCTE (in India) and so on. Similarly, when operators install radios on buildings, they are mandated to follow similar regulatory principles to ensure rigorous compliance to these standards. This ensures that such radiation is not dangerous.

Q. How different are 5G towers from existing telecom towers?

For communications with 5G, there is no difference from what is installed and in use today in existing telecom towers.

Q. What is the solution to mitigate the impact of radiation?

Various studies conducted by the government and independent agencies have shown no correlation of this exposure to any harmful impact on the human body. Strictly adhering to safety regulations is the best practice.

Q. What danger do they pose to the people residing in the vicinity?

On a daily basis, we are constantly in contact with a range of devices like Bluetooth, microwave, etc. The notion that 5G as a technology in itself is dangerous to humans is incorrect. 5G is a continuation of wireless technology and doesn’t pose any material threat. As telecom providers follow extremely stringent regulations, we don't see this becoming harmful to human health. In fact, it will open up possibilities to solve some big socio-economic issues such as equitable education, healthcare, remote working and many more.