Bengaluru Metro to open Metro pillar spaces for 5G infrastructure installation

The project, designed as a single-stage, two-cover system, offers designated pillar spaces in the elevated Metro sections for telecom equipment installation. These installations are expected to provide seamless 5G coverage along the Metro corridors and surrounding areas.

Earlier in 2022, BMRCL became the first Metro operator in India to test 5G network under a pilot project of Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI).

The system consisting of outdoor small cells (ODSC) distributed antenna system (DAS) installed by Reliance Jio and the testing was carried out at MG Road Metro station.

The ODSC radiated signals cover up to a distance of 200 metres. During the trials, preliminary bandwidth trials gave 1.45 Gbps download and 65 Mbps upload speeds, making it 50 times faster than 4G. A two-kilometre stretch between MG Road and Ulsoor Metro stations was identified for the 5G pilot project.

This initiative is aimed at tapping Metro infrastructure for public and private utility and fostering collaboration with telecom operators to enhance Bengaluru’s technological ecosystem while also generating additional revenue.

A spokesperson for the BMRCL explained that telecom operators are welcome to participate in the tendering process to lease Metro pillars for their use.

“Operators can conduct surveys to identify pillars along the Metro lines that align with their network coverage and infrastructure requirements. Based on these assessments, they can bid for the pillars most suited to their needs. The rented pillars would then serve as a platform for telecom operators to install and expand their 5G infrastructure, enabling improved network connectivity in the city,” said the official.

The enhanced network coverage is expected to provide seamless connectivity throughout the journey for passengers, even in areas where signals typically weaken or in densely populated urban zones. This allows faster internet speeds, uninterrupted access to online services and enabling commuters to stay connected for work, entertainment, or personal use.

BMRCL stated that interested parties can download the tender documents from BMRCL’s e-procurement portal and submit the e-tenders on January 29, 2025, by 3 pm. The bids will be opened on January 30, 2025, at 3.30 pm.