Bharti Airtel, one of India's leading telecommunications service providers, has announced what it calls a pioneering initiative to deliver uninterrupted connectivity to metro commuters by deploying high-capacity nodes 35 metres below the River Hooghly (popularly known as the Ganga) in West Bengal.
Airtel has invested in the infrastructure ahead of the commercial launch of a new metro service, which is expected soon. This makes Airtel the first operator to deliver seamless connectivity through the 4.8 kilometre stretch in Kolkata’s East – West Metro corridor connecting Howrah Maidan with the Esplanade.
To facilitate this service, Airtel has connected the 4.8 kilometre stretch between Howrah Maidan, Howrah Station, Mahakaran and Esplanade stations via fibre. High-capacity nodes at each of these stations have been deployed for seamless connectivity allowing commuters to enjoy high 5G speeds, uninterrupted voice calls and data transmission that enhance the daily commute experience and allow customers to stay connected and productive during their trips.
Ayan Sarkar, CEO – Bharti Airtel West Bengal and Odisha, says: “This initiative to provide under-river tunnel connectivity will certainly make a difference to commuters where they will get to access to high-definition video streaming, gaming, multiple chatting, instant uploading of photos and more, along with enjoying the scenic stretch below River Ganga."
India's first underwater metro connecting Howrah to Kolkata will be opened to the public soon.
