The Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has announced plans to open up Metro pillar spaces for the installation of 5G infrastructure, aiming to improve mobile network coverage along the East-West Line, North-South Line of Phase-1, and Reaches 5 and 6, according to Indian Express. This move is part of a broader initiative to provide seamless 5G connectivity across Bengaluru’s metro corridors and surrounding areas.
BMRCL has invited e-tenders from qualified firms to lease the designated pillar spaces, which will be used to install small cells for telecom equipment, the Indian Express reported. This project, part of a single-stage, two-cover system, focuses on the elevated sections of the metro where telecom infrastructure will be installed to boost network performance.
The initiative builds on BMRCL’s pioneering efforts in 2022 when it became the first metro operator in India to test 5G technology under a pilot project of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). The pilot, conducted at the MG Road Metro station, saw Reliance Jio install an outdoor small cells distributed antenna system (ODSC), radiating signals up to 200 metres. The trial recorded impressive speeds of 1.45 Gbps download and 65 Mbps upload, marking a 50-fold improvement over 4G.
Through the new leasing initiative, telecom operators will be able to lease Metro pillars that align with their network coverage and infrastructure needs. They can conduct surveys to identify pillars suited to their requirements and then submit bids for the spaces. These rented pillars will serve as platforms for expanding 5G infrastructure, improving connectivity in areas where signals tend to weaken, such as densely populated urban zones.
BMRCL’s spokesperson highlighted that the new 5G installations would offer enhanced network coverage, ensuring uninterrupted internet access for commuters. This will allow for faster internet speeds and uninterrupted access to online services, making it easier for passengers to stay connected for work, entertainment, or personal use throughout their journey.
Interested parties can access the tender documents through BMRCL’s e-procurement portal. The deadline for submitting e-tenders is January 29, 2025, by 3 pm, with the bid opening scheduled for January 30, 2025, at 3.30 pm. This initiative is expected to enhance Bengaluru’s technological ecosystem and generate additional revenue for BMRCL.