Bengaluru: Namma Metro passengers left without mobile-connectivity in underground sections
What's the story
Several Bengaluru Namma Metro commuters are frustrated as they are unable to get mobile connectivity in the underground section of the Purple Line. The section was opened over a year ago, but people still cannot use cell phones, an essential travel item. Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation officials say thousands of talktime minutes are lost as 3.25 lakh commuters enter/exit underground stations every day.
Bengaluru Metro
Telcos must come forward for enabling underground mobile connectivity
Officials say the infrastructure for providing mobile connectivity is readily available, but only one telco has come forward to offer the services so far. Apart from Purple Line, stations on Green Line after the completion of Phase-I in Jun'16 are waiting for telecom companies to approach American Tower Corporation, which bagged the tender for providing voice and data services, and install their towers.
Information
BMRCL trying to rope in BSNL
According to some officials, BMRCL was in talks with state-run Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited for providing services; however, the talks haven't progressed so far. It is believed the high rates and fees quoted by American Tower Corporation (ATC) is the reason behind it.