Belgian mobile operator Proximus, part of the Belgacom, confirmed the launch of its LTE network in Brussels. The company is deploying the network in anticipation of the entry into force soon of new regulations in the capital city on network equipment radiation norms. The strict regulations previously made it impossible for existing operators to add more antennas in the city without exceeding the maximum radiation.
The company has already activated some 4G antennas under the previous norm of 3V/m, providing coverage for around 20 percent of the population. The new regulations will raise the maximum to 6V/m. The operator noted that it could take 12-18 months to complete coverage of the capital, and much depends on how fast it's granted building permits by the local government.
Proximus said 25 percent of the data traffic on its network already comes from Brussels and the surrounding area, and the new network will help it meet the growing demand for data.
