TRAI Assesses Mobile Network Quality on Munabao to Tanot National Highway (NH-70) in Rajasthan LSA

Why in news

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has released findings from an Independent Drive Test (IDT) conducted on the Munabao to Tanot National Highway (NH-70) in Rajasthan LSA to assess the real-time quality of mobile network services.

Exam relevance

GS3 · Economy, Science & Technology, Governance · Prelims · Mains

Key facts

1. TRAI conducted an Independent Drive Test (IDT) on the Munabao to Tanot National Highway (NH-70) in Rajasthan LSA.
2. The drive test was conducted in June 2026.
3. The purpose was to assess and verify real-time quality of mobile network services (voice & data) provided by Telecom Service Providers (TSPs).
4. Key Quality of Service (QoS) parameters assessed include Coverage, Call Drop Rate (CDR), Call Setup Success Rate (CSSR), and data Download (DL) and Upload (UL) throughput.
5. The IDT involved establishing live data and voice sessions using SIM cards from all TSPs over 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G networks.
6. Multiple advanced test handsets and advanced software systems were used for monitoring and analysis.
7. The test covered 311.4 KMs on the Munabao to Tanot National Highway (NH-70).

Prelims pointers

• TRAI conducts Independent Drive Tests (IDTs) to assess mobile network quality.
• QoS parameters include Coverage, CDR, CSSR, and data throughput.
• IDTs test services across 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G networks.
• Munabao to Tanot National Highway (NH-70) in Rajasthan LSA was recently assessed.

Mains practice question

Examine the role of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) in ensuring Quality of Service (QoS) for mobile network users. Discuss the significance of periodic drive tests conducted by TRAI, particularly in remote and strategic locations.

Static linkage

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is the statutory authority mandated under the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India Act, 1997, to regulate the telecommunications sector in India. It plays a crucial role in ensuring quality of service and promoting consumer interests in the rapidly evolving telecom landscape.

Significance

The assessment of mobile network quality along a critical national highway like NH-70, especially in a region like Rajasthan LSA which may have connectivity challenges, is significant for ensuring reliable communication services for consumers, security forces, and economic activities. The published findings encourage competition among TSPs to improve their service quality, thereby enhancing digital inclusion and connectivity in remote areas.