Tensions escalate between tower companies, mobile operators over IBS

Mobile operators have raised objections to the use of cost-effective In-Building Solution (IBS) technology. They have even accused the country’s top tower company, Edotco, of irregularities in IBS installation. In this regard, Edotco has sent a letter, with a copy submitted to the BTRC as well. In response, Edotco has sent a counter letter to AMTOB and the BTRC, providing detailed explanations about the installation of cost-efficient and advanced IBS technology. The issue has sparked widespread discussion in the telecommunications sector.

IBS is a technology used to enhance mobile network capacity inside multi-storey buildings. However, due to the absence of provisions for IBS installation in the country’s building construction regulations or building code, setting up IBS in most multi-storey buildings has become complicated. In particular, in residential areas developed by private housing companies in the capital, network installation often faces various obstacles or demands for undue financial payments from housing authorities. As a result, residents of most private housing areas in Dhaka suffer from poor mobile network connectivity. According to relevant sources, it is edotco’s initiative to solve this problem that has led to the current tensions with the operators.

According to AMTOB’s letter, as a licensed tower company, Edotco has exceeded its approved operational scope by providing IBS solutions, which, they claim, is not aligned with BTRC regulations.

Edotco has denied these allegations and sent a counter letter to AMTOB, also informing the BTRC of its position.

In its letter, Edotco stated that its license allows it to install passive Distributed Antenna System (DAS) infrastructure. It asserted that its work at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport’s third terminal, the Directorate General of Forces Intelligence (DGFI), the National Heart Foundation, and in Bashundhara was carried out transparently and in full compliance with regulations. The company also pointed out that in certain areas of Bashundhara Residential Area, mobile network operators themselves have installed systems independently.

Mentioning that it had presented a “data-centric IBS model” at a BTRC-organized meeting, edotco explained that this model would reduce infrastructure costs for MNOs while ensuring global best practices, including macro-sharing.

Claiming that all its activities are consistent with license conditions and BTRC directives, Edotco proposed forming a joint forum comprising AMTOB, MNOs, and the BTRC. The forum would work on aligning IBS strategies, clarifying regulatory interpretations, and developing an inclusive digital coverage model for Bangladesh.