Monday, July 14, 2014

Cellphone operators will dispel ''radiation myths'' online

Cellphone operators will dispel ''radiation myths'' online


MUMBAI: The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI), the parent body of cellphone providers, will use social media to counter "myths'' about radiation emanating from mobile towers and cellphones. It will reach out to people who are ''oblivious'' of safety regulations. 

Blogger's Note: [Naturally, they will reach out to those who are oblivious because the people in the know, also know that they are a bunch of freakin liars.]
Prominent Mumbaikars led by scientists, medical experts as well as film star Juhi Chawla have long been campaigning for regulating cellphone usage. They say that radiation from mobile towers is closely linked to spiralling instances of cancer among the local population. 

In July 2013, TOI had reported how four residents of Hina Kunj building in Vile Parle with no family history had been diagnosed with cancer and brain tumor, which they blamed on radiation emanating from a cellphone tower installed nearby in 2008. Experts said ''it was no coincidence'' that the patients were battling serious ailments and undergoing daily chemotherapy sessions, but mobile phone operators insisted that there was no conclusive evidence to link the two. 

The Indian government has implemented certain norms for the mobile phone industry but activists feel more needs to be done particularly with regards to banning cell towers within a certain radius of hospitals, schools and colleges. 

COAI claims, ''Myths surrounding health issues due to EMF (electromagnetic field) radiation from antennae on mobile towers and mobile handsets have gained ground. The issue has far-reaching economic implications so the Indian government has implemented stringent safety norms for the industry on EMF.'' 

Rajan S Mathews, director general, COAI, said, ''We have been talking to the telecom industry as well as the general public. However, we need to widen our reach to those who are oblivious of the science and safety regime behind telecom technology. Social media is a powerful medium to communicate with the youth, and we plan to do so regularly.''

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/mumbai/Cellphone-operators-will-dispel-radiation-myths-online/articleshow/38383430.cms

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