NDMC Issues Guidelines for Communication Tower Installation in Lutyens’ Delhi

The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has issued a 37-point guideline for the installation of communication towers in the Lutyens’ Delhi area. The aim of the guidelines is to bring uniformity while ensuring that heritage and aesthetic aspects of the area are not disturbed. The NDMC’s policy lays down detailed rules and regulations that need to be followed while installing towers or antennae. All towers or antennae must be at the rear end of the plot, invisible from the main entrance, and cannot have diesel generator sets on-site. Unauthorized Cell On Wheel (COW) installations will be promptly removed, with e-auctions to take place at NDMC-designated areas at approved rates initially for three years, which could be further extended for two years. A penalty of Rs 10,000 per month will apply from the date of existence of the tower for all mobile towers that have been installed without permission in accordance with NDMC regulations. The NDMC will also charge a one-time permission fee of Rs 3 lakh for 5 years for installation or renewal of a new tower. For heritage-listed buildings and those located within a radius of 300 meters from ASI monuments, NOCs (No Objection Certificate) from the Heritage Conservative Committee and National Monument Authority will be required, respectively. While towers and antennas are not permitted within Central Vista, if necessary, a committee, chaired by NDMC Chairperson and with members to be co-opted from the Central Vista Committee, will decide issues on a case-to-case basis. Similarly, no permission to install towers or antennae on the campus of NDMC schools, including Navyug Schools, and buildings of hospitals and dispensaries will be granted. In case of a technical requirement, the matter shall be referred to the Chairperson NDMC for seeking exemption on a case-to-case basis.