An Indian parliamentary panel is advocating for regulations governing the location and inspection of mobile towers to help reduce electro-magnetic radiation (EMR).
The committee is calling for a comprehensive study to be conducted establishing risk levels and adverse health effects of mobile towers. the Economic Times reported.
Claiming that Indians are more vulnerable to electro-magnetic radiation than Europeans, the committee has urged the Department of Telecom to consider rethinking its approach to mobile towers.
The committee noted research indicating that unrestricted deployment of cell towers and antennas creates a concentrated EMR effect.
In addition, the committee is seeking an increase in the number of qualified inspectors to measure the effects of EMR from mobile towers. These inspectors should conduct random checks and file inspection reports to keep the public aware of the issue.
Indian dietary habits mean the population has a lower average body mass index and less body fat than Europeans, leaving them more prone to EMR, the committee said.
The group is also calling on a thorough study on the impact of mobile towers on birds, bees, insects and other creatures to help minimize the impact.
Telcos found to be violating the guidelines should be subject to “stringent penalties” that go beyond mere fines, the committee asserted.