Towering problem

Telecom companies are installing towers with radiation capacity that is much higher than the stipulated one::

Anjali Nauriyal Kishanpur

The residents of Kishanpur are opposing the setting up of mobile towers in their locality. Already there are four towers that have been installed very close to each other. These towers are not only spoiling the look of the area but will also create a whole lot of health problems, state some of the citizens.

More than adults, students of a school that is situated close by will be harmed as they all are present most of the time within a one-km radius of the tower, state concerned residents.

"The radiation emitted by the tower is bound to cause health hazards for the aged as well and also disturb the concentration of birds in the locality," they warned.

Says Gideon John, who has lived in the area for over two decades, "There was a time when we would wake up to the chirping of birds in the mornings, but not any more. We are facing several problems because of these towers. There is too much noise pollution whenever the generators are put to use. The residents are also facing air pollution as well and uneasiness due to transmission of rays."

"We are stuck with these towers, but we won't allow any more towers in the area," adds Gideon, adding, "I am sure that the people who allow these towers to be installed in their homes are unaware about the harmful effects of rays emitting fromthese towers. Companies never explain what damage these rays can cause to humans. And by the time people discover the ill-effects, it is too late."

Ashok Verma, a well-known lawyer of the town, states that so far there is no government regulation to control this menace. Disgruntled people can approach the civil court. "But it is the bounden duty of cell phone companies to inform the general public about the ill-effects of living close to these towers. If they are not doing this they are failing in their duty," he points out.

The central government has set up a panel to study the problem and make recommendations. But until then people, it seems, will continue to suffer as telecom infrastructure has invaded our lives and health like never before.

What is bothering residents is that the telecom companies are installing towers with radiation capacity that is much higher than the stipulated one. The standard fixed by the International Commission of Non-iodized Radiation is not being followed due to mindless competition between companies and the desire of users for better and better coverage area.