TRAI announces new rules to eliminate call drop and poor voice quality issues

Mobile users may soon find relief from frequent issues such as call drops, unclear voice quality, or delays in call connection. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has issued new regulations for mobile service users across the country. The impact of these new changes will be seen on the networks of all telecom companies, including Jio, Airtel, Vi, and BSNL. This arrangement will come into effect from 1 January, 2027.

According to a report by TV9 Gujarati, the primary objective of these new rules is to reduce 'latency', i.e., the time taken to connect a call on the network. This will improve the quality of communication and make the voice clearer. These steps will increase the network capacity of both voice and data services. Currently, when calls are made between networks of different companies, issues such as voice cutting out or delays in call connection arise, which will now decrease.

Under the new interconnection rules, telecom companies will have to use modern IP (Internet Protocol) technology. All new interconnections starting from 1 January, 2027, will be based on this technology. Companies currently using old E-1/TDM technology 'Points of Interconnection' (POIs) have been directed to gradually transition to IP-based systems over the next three years. This will improve coordination between the networks of different operators.

A major change has also been made in the call traffic management method. Until now, call traffic management was done at local levels such as SDCA or LDCA, but it will now be moved to the broader level of LSA (Licensed Service Area). This will allow better control over traffic pressure on the network and reduce issues like network congestion.

TRAI has also made provisions for financial penalties against companies that do not comply with the rules. The amount of the fine will be determined based on the type of violation. Additionally, the interest rate on outstanding interconnection charges has been capped at up to 2% above the State Bank of India's one-year MCLR.

These changes will also reduce the operational costs of telecom companies and result in bandwidth savings. Companies will be able to use these savings to improve services and keep tariffs stable. The implementation of new technology will reduce unnecessary noise during calls, and the voice of the person on the other end will sound more natural.