Bharti Airtel has announced that it will be providing the Kolkata Metro commuters under-river tunnel 5G connectivity by installing high-capacity nodes beneath the Hooghly River, reaching depths of 35 meters. This initiative positions Airtel as the pioneer in delivering uninterrupted connectivity along the 4.8-kilometre route of Kolkata’s East-West Metro corridor, linking Howrah Maidan with the Esplanade.
High-capacity nodes at stations
The deployment of high-capacity nodes at each station will ensure uninterrupted connectivity, enabling commuters to enjoy high-speed internet, make voice calls, and transmit data seamlessly, the firm explained. Ayan Sarkar, CEO of Bharti Airtel West Bengal and Odisha, emphasised the significance of this initiative, stating that it will revolutionise commuters’ experience, offering access to high-definition video streaming, gaming, multiple chatting options, instant photo uploads, and more, all while enjoying the scenic journey beneath the Ganges River.
India’s first underwater metro
The inaugural operations of India’s first underwater metro, linking Howrah to Kolkata via a tunnel beneath the Hooghly River, is scheduled to commence in June 2024.
In April 2023, the Kolkata Metro achieved a major milestone after its rake run beneath the river. It was the first time in India that a metro rake had completed its journey under the river bed.
The project, sanctioned in 2009, has been plagued by numerous setbacks and increases in costs. In December 2022, it was reported that as per officials, the cost of the project had nearly doubled in 13 years.
(With PTI inputs)