Response sought from Centre, Delhi on radiation from cellphone towers

Delhi, July 24, 2012: The Delhi High Court on Monday directed the central and the city government to respond to a plea for a ban on high frequency radio mobile phone towers in residential areas due to radiation hazards.

Justice Rajiv Shakdher issued notices to the Department of Telecommunication, Chief Secretary of Delhi government and a leading mobile service provider, seeking their replies by January 14.

The court was hearing a petition filed by Ramnath Garg, through his counsel Sugriv Dubey, for imposing a ban on installation of high frequency mobile phone towers within 50 metres of schools, hospitals and residential localities. The petitioner also sought compensation for the death of his 30-year-old son, who he claimed died of cancer caused by radiation from a mobile tower on the roof of his house.

“The radiation from the cellphone towers causes swelling in the brain, hearing disorders, headache and anxiety. Towers should not be allowed to be installed within 50 metres of such places,” the petition said.

The petition also sought directions to Department of Telecom, private operators and the state government to take steps to reduce exposure to radiation.