If a telecom company wants to lay a cable or build a tower on or across your property, it must follow a defined permission process and pay you compensation under the Telecommunications (Right of Way) Rules, 2024. These rules came into force on 1 January 2025 under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, and replaced the older 2016 right-of-way rules. As the owner, you are part of the process; infrastructure cannot simply appear on your land without consent and a fair deal.
On your land already without permission? Skip to “If work starts without consent”.
The rules govern how a telecom or infrastructure provider installs overground and underground telecom infrastructure such as cables, poles, and mobile towers on public and private property. They set out the application procedure, the role of the local authority, timelines for decisions, compensation, and how disputes are handled. The aim is a predictable, non-arbitrary process that protects both connectivity and your property rights.
Ramesh owns a plot on the edge of a town in Maharashtra. A contractor begins digging a trench across his boundary to lay an optic-fibre cable. Ramesh asks for the approval, finds none was shown to him, and writes to the local authority citing the Right of Way Rules, 2024. He files an RTI for the permission file. The provider then regularises the work, agrees compensation, and restores his boundary wall.
No. Under the Telecommunications (Right of Way) Rules, 2024, a provider must apply through the proper process and obtain permission. You are entitled to be part of the arrangement and to compensation. Installation without due process can be challenged through the grievance route.
Yes. The rules provide for compensation for the use of and damage to your property, and for restoration to the earlier condition. Agree the amount and restoration terms in writing before work begins, and keep all records.
The Telecommunications (Right of Way) Rules, 2024, notified on 17 September 2024 and in force from 1 January 2025, under the Telecommunications Act, 2023. They replaced the Indian Telegraph Right of Way Rules, 2016.
Document the damage with photographs and dates. Write to the provider demanding restoration and compensation as the rules require. If unresolved, use the dispute resolution route under the rules and approach the designated authority.
You can negotiate terms and object through the process, but the rules also balance public interest in connectivity. The right path is to insist on due process, fair compensation, and restoration, and to escalate disputes rather than resort to self-help.
You can file an RTI with the local authority for the permission application, any approval granted, and the conditions imposed for work on or near your property. This reveals whether due process was followed and strengthens your case.
To get the permission file, use the AI RTI Drafter and track the reply with the Timeline Tracker. See the RTI Act, 2005.