India delicenses spectrum bands to boost autonomous vehicle development

Key facts

• India's telecom department has exempted spectrum in the 5.9 GHz and 77-81 GHz bands from licensing.
• The 5.9 GHz band will be used for vehicle-to-everything (C-V2X) communication.
• The 77-81 GHz band is utilized for short-range automotive radar systems.
• These systems enable features like emergency braking and adaptive cruise control.
• The decision is expected to enhance road safety and reduce congestion.

India's Department of Telecommunications has removed licensing requirements for the 5.9 GHz and 77-81 GHz spectrum bands, a move anticipated to significantly boost passenger safety and accelerate the development of autonomous vehicles.

The delicensing of the 5.9 GHz band will permit the establishment, maintenance, or working of On Board Units (OBUs) installed in vehicles for cellular vehicle-to-everything (C-V2X) communication, operating on a non-interference, non-protection, and non-exclusive basis. This allows cars, traffic lights, and emergency services to communicate in real-time, thereby enhancing road safety and reducing congestion.

Similarly, the 77-81 GHz band, used for short-range automotive radar systems, will also be exempt from licensing. These radars are crucial for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), which include features such as emergency braking, lane departure warnings, and adaptive cruise control.

Experts like Anupam Shrivastava, former CMD of BSNL, hailed the decision as a major win for road safety and innovation, clearing a significant hurdle for future transport. Bharat Bhatia, President of IAFI, described it as a landmark decision that will stimulate innovation in next-generation wireless technologies. Satya N Gupta, former Principal Advisor at Trai, noted that the unlicensing of 30 MHz in the lower 6 GHz band for OBUs will power intelligent transport systems, leading to improved safety, efficiency, and reduced emissions and accidents.