Lamp posts to boost cell phone signals

Four of South Africa’s cell phone network providers have teamed up with electricity provider, City Power, in order to mount booster antennas on lamp posts to improve network coverage in Joburg’s northern suburbs.

The roll-out of these boosters have begun in parts of Randburg and surrounds and according to a statement by MTN, function within the bounds of the health standards stipulated by the International Commission for Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNRP).

Network coverage in the city’s centre and spreading toward the northern and western suburbs, has been a cause for concern due to lengthy permitting periods.

Ward 104 councillor Mike Wood seemed pleased with the roll-out, but did have a few concerns, however. “Even though I have been told that this roll-out does not require any environmental impact studies, concerned residents weren’t informed or asked for their opinions on the matter.”

Wood stated that if issues regarding health and safety arise regarding the boosters, it will be taken up with the Department of Health.

“Only time will tell if these boosters are 100 per cent reliable, which cannot be confirmed at this stage.”