TRAI proposes Cell on Wheels for Namma Metro

TRAI’s proposal for 5G integration in metro facilities aims to revolutionise connectivity and safety measures, paving way for future digital transformation.

If you’re experiencing a lack of metro signals while aboard metro trains, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has suggested that metros should provide Cell on Wheels (CoWs) inside their premises (such as car parking or open areas). This setup would include the necessary plug-and-play infrastructure to ensure seamless coverage and enhance the customer experience at metro locations.

The potential of 5G networks at metro stations is remarkable. Metro trains can leverage 5G technology to offer accurate route maps and proximity-based digital signage, ensuring travellers optimise their time before boarding. It’s crucial for both metro operators and travellers to implement effective security measures. Utilising 5G networks, metros can deploy high-definition video surveillance, feeding into AI-powered security monitoring services for real-time analysis of situational data.

TRAI’s pilot project on using street furniture for small cells and aerial fibre development, conducted at Bengaluru Metro stations, now suggests deploying 5G Small Cell and Aerial Fibre at other metro stations nationwide using existing street furniture. The project report emphasises the need for provisions to conduct emergency repairs or replacements of telecom equipment in metro premises during limited times post-metro train movement.

Trials at MG Road metro station covered entry and exit areas, platforms, and indoor coverage. However, according to the TRAI report, metro officials denied permission for a Metro Cable duct along the track due to safety concerns related to high-tension electric cables and signalling cables. Additionally, no permission was granted for installing Telecom/BBRS Poles between stations for small cell fixing due to concerns about structural stability, nor for the installation of small cell fixing on metro piers.

An official noted, “The adoption of 5G networks in India has the potential to transform industrial sectors and deliver significant economic benefits across verticals. One major pillar of economic development is metro infrastructure. Equipping metro infrastructure with the latest communication technologies is essential to attract foreign investment and enable Indian metros to compete globally. For the success of the next stage of digital transformation through upcoming 5G small cell deployment, TRAI is working on a futuristic Policy Framework to enable next-generation communication infrastructure at critical locations with a special focus on metros. Therefore, to understand the requirements/challenges involved in the deployment of small cells and aerial fibre in the challenging metro environment, a pilot project was initiated at Namma Metro, Bengaluru, in April this year.”

Equipping metro infrastructure with the latest communication technologies is essential to attract foreign investment and enable Indian metros to compete globally – TRAI official

The pilot study aimed to identify operational challenges and establish an enabling regulatory and policy framework for all stakeholders ahead of actual deployment. One objective was to understand the challenges of establishing a cross-sectoral collaboration policy framework enabling cooperation between metro authorities and telecom companies to leverage brownfield metro street furniture for deploying 5G networks. Bangalore Mirror