DELHI (Metro Rail News): The National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) has initiated a tender process to enhance mobile network connectivity for train commuters traveling on the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut RRTS Corridor. This encompasses the allocation of licensing space for in-building solutions (IBS) to facilitate shared mobile coverage within the corridor’s underground section.
The corridor has a 12-kilometer underground segment, which includes a 5-kilometer tunnel section with one underground station at Anand Vihar, Delhi, and a 7-kilometer tunnel section with three underground stations, Meerut Central, Bhaisali, and Begumpul in Meerut.
The motivation behind this initiative is to address the common issue faced by commuters in existing urban transportation systems, namely, disrupted or nonexistent mobile network coverage in underground sections. Unlike elevated sections, where coverage is ensured by established telecom infrastructure, underground areas often suffer from connectivity problems. The aim is to ensure that passengers using the Rapidx train services do not encounter similar challenges.
According to the tender invitation, a single neutral host provider will be delivering IBS through common infrastructure for all existing and future mobile operators. This approach is intended to streamline mobile operators’ ability to serve their customers effectively.
The chosen provider will offer shared solutions that cater to various types of telecom operators and their respective technologies, including GSM, UMTS, LTE, and 5G. This initiative by NCRTC is geared towards ensuring uninterrupted mobile services for commuters within the tunnels connecting underground stations and at the stations themselves.
Furthermore, this initiative serves as a means to increase the non-fare box revenue of NCRTC. The commercial potential of the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut RRTS Corridor will be harnessed to generate funds, which will be directed towards covering operational expenses, as outlined by officials.
In summary, the National Capital Region Transport Corporation is taking steps to enhance mobile network connectivity for commuters traveling on the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut RRTS Corridor, with a particular focus on addressing connectivity issues in underground sections. This initiative aims to ensure seamless mobile services and generate additional revenue to support operational costs.
