Batelco separation, 5G launch key achievements, says TRA

Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA), during a meeting yesterday, viewed the splitting of Batelco into two entities and the launching of commercial 5G network as some of its key achievements while reviewing the progress of the sector yesterday. Batelco’s separation project was delivered in an efficient manner “meeting the target set by the Government of three years,” TRA’s Executive Management were told during a meeting yesterday.

Bahrain-based telecoms firm Batelco was legally separated into two entities to cover broadband infrastructure and retail operations. Batelco also signed a deal with Ericsson in April 2019 to commercially deploy 5G network technology over three years. The board also praised the Executive Management for enabling the launch of 5G networks. Bahrain, TRA board said, is now one of the first countries in the region with 5G network, thanks to timely securing of the necessary spectrum and frequency licenses.

Frequencies used for 5G are the same as previously used for WiMAX and some 4G Services that were introduced in Bahrain since 2007 and 2013 respectively, TRA said earlier. At that time, TRA also clarified that the level of 5G radiation in Bahrain does not exceed the 1 per cent level allowed internationally, which was later confirmed ty World Health Organisation (WHO).

The meeting also appreciated the Executive Management for implementing and improving TRA regulations and enhancing its consumer-related systems. Board expressed their sincere regrets for the demise of the Board Chairman Dr Mohamed Al Amer, commending his lifelong dedication to public service.