Exposure to EMF radiations from mobile phones and towers

The health effect Electro-Magnetic Frequency (EMF) radiation from the towers/mobile phones is of great concern. As reported, the probability of health effects is about 5 times higher in case of children and teenagers. Pregnant women should also be protected from the exposures so that the fetus is not exposed.

It is reported that about 50% of Indian population are using mobile phones! There are several thousands of transmission towers mushrooming all over the country. The convenience of mobile phone in passing on messages is undisputed. But it is over-used and unregulated. That is the concern.

Since last three years, I have been fighting a lone battle to create public awareness about the issue. I have written many posts in my blog site http://radsafe.blogspot.com. I also have written a 11 page write-up on the safety concerns and protection standards for EMF radiation in my web site www.radsafetyinfo.com. As a radiation protection professional, in my anxiety to sensitize the authorities, I have written letters to Municipal Commissioners of Mumbai and Navi Mumbai, Mayer of Navi Mumbai and Maharashtra Health Minister highlighting the public health concerns due to the EM radiation pollution and the possible health effects from the excessive usage of mobile phones, and exposure to EMF radiation from the towers. I have copies of the communications.

I doubt whether India has a separate regulator to ensure safety from the EMF radiation exposures. It was suggested that BARC/AERB should start monitoring the EMF density in different locations to ensure see compliance with the available international standards.

Somehow, nothing happened. I felt at that time that the telecom lobby is too strong and it is very difficult to make the government take action on the issue. However, about 6 month's back, Maharashtra Government has formed a committee to look into the matter. It is heartening to note that the newspapers like Times of India and Mumbai Mirror have started realizing the impending public health disaster from excessive usage of mobile phones and EMF emissions from the towers. It is already late. Better late than never.