The Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) is rolling out an innovative project to lease pillar spaces across Bengaluru’s metro network for the installation of 5G infrastructure. This initiative is poised to revolutionise mobile network coverage along key stretches of the East-West and North-South metro lines, covering both Phase-1 and Reaches 5 and 6.
By inviting tenders for the leasing of pillar spaces, BMRCL is offering telecom firms the opportunity to install small cells for telecom equipment, strategically improving network performance. These elevated metro sections, often experiencing signal disruption in dense urban areas, will now be equipped with advanced 5G technology to ensure seamless mobile connectivity for millions of commuters. This is a significant leap forward in making Bengaluru’s metro journey not only more efficient but also more connected.
Incorporating the principles of sustainability, the BMRCL project aims to utilise existing infrastructure to roll out state-of-the-art telecom technology without requiring new land acquisitions. This strategic use of metro pillars ensures minimal environmental impact while significantly enhancing the city’s mobile network coverage. Telecom operators will now have access to existing metro infrastructure, thus reducing the need for new, resource-intensive installations. This project is not BMRCL’s first step into the world of 5G. In 2022, the metro system became the first in India to conduct a 5G trial, with impressive results. During the pilot at MG Road station, Reliance Jio successfully demonstrated 5G speeds of up to 1.45 Gbps, a 50-fold improvement over the existing 4G network. The launch of this new initiative is expected to build on these successes and expand high-speed internet access throughout Bengaluru’s bustling metro corridors.
Beyond simply improving internet speeds, the availability of enhanced mobile network services can transform how people experience travel. With faster, more reliable connectivity, commuters can stay connected for work, entertainment, or personal tasks without disruptions. This shift in connectivity will cater to an increasingly digital-first population and bolster Bengaluru’s standing as a hub for technological innovation. The leasing process will begin with a call for e-tenders, with a deadline set for January 29, 2025, and the bid opening scheduled the following day. As businesses and telecom giants rush to secure their place in this pioneering project, BMRCL is positioning itself as a key player in India’s digital transformation. Not only will this provide Bengaluru with more robust connectivity, but it will also open up new avenues of revenue for the Metro Corporation, further contributing to the city’s ongoing infrastructure expansion. With this strategic 5G rollout, Bengaluru is poised to enhance its global reputation as a leading tech city while fostering an environment of digital sustainability that meets the growing demands of the modern urban commuter.
