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www.metrorailnews.in METRO RAIL NEWS -AUGUST - 2025 21%u2022Technical Gaps: Various technical challenges will arise in the migration to FRMCS, including:%u2022Coexistence and Interference: The simultaneous operation of FRMCS and GSM-R raises concerns about potential interference.%u2022Deployment Model Selection: Identifying the most suitable deployment model for the 5G core network will be imperative.%u2022Infrastructure Requirements: Implementing FRMCS will necessitate the upgrade of existing infrastructure and the deployment of new equipment capable of supporting 5G-based communication. To maintain operational consistency, the infrastructure will need to support both GSM-R and FRMCS during a transition period. This dualoperation approach allows gradual migration without disrupting services. The sequence may involve:Workforce Requirements: A skilled workforce which is familiar with both legacy GSM-R systems and the new FRMCS technology is essential.Cost Implications: The shift to FRMCS will involve high capital expenditure as it will require investment not only for infrastructure upgrades and rolling stock retrofitting but also for maintaining two systems in parallel during the migration phase. ConclusionThe indian rail transport industry is experiencing a paradigm shift toward modernisation. To improve its operations, the rail transport industry is leveraging automation and modern safety systems, which are backed by advanced communication systems. The rollout of 5G in railways is expected to enable high-speed operations by allowing data to be transmitted with low latency, which is essential for real-time control and monitoring. While the technology is still evolving in India, its future use can improve operational efficiency and help reduce costs for both metro and rail operators.However, adopting 5G comes with several technical and operational challenges. These include the high cost of upgrading existing infrastructure, addressing compatibility issues, and developing a detailed migration plan to move from legacy systems to 5G-based systems without disrupting current operations. Additionally, as systems become more digital and connected, the risk of cyber threats increases. For example, interference with signalling systems or unauthorised access to control commands could affect train movement and safety. As a result, implementing strong cybersecurity measures will be essential to protect critical railway infrastructure as it transitions to 5G. As India explores the use of 5G in railways, the focus should remain on realistic planning, gradual implementation, and building secure systems that can support both current needs and future growth.COVER STORY