LPG supply cut threatens India's 5G rollout
India's telecom tower makers are sounding the alarm after a government order limited LPG supplies to home use only.
Without enough LPG, building new towers could slow down, may hinder network expansion and 5G rollout, particularly in uncovered or capacity-constrained regions.
Factories barely managing to keep things running
LPG is used in galvanization to apply zinc coatings that protect towers from corrosion and improve durability.
With supplies cut, factories are barely managing to keep things running, and longer shortages could force shutdowns that take ages to restart.
Industry group urges officials to restore LPG supplies
About one-third of towers are currently fiber-connected, but most need upgrades for full 5G coverage (no year specified in the source).
The industry group DIPA says delays will make it harder for more people to get connected.
Their director general is urging officials to restore LPG supplies to manufacturers and to ensure priority electricity availability for tower sites so India doesn't fall behind on digital access.