Leading the Connectivity Revolution: Airtel’s 5G Breakthrough
Telecom giant Bharti Airtel is set to pioneer 5G connectivity in India’s inaugural under-river tunnel, positioned 13 meters beneath the Hooghly River and 40 feet below the surface. Making the announcement on Monday, the telecommunications company revealed plans to install high-capacity nodes 35 meters below the river’s surface to ensure uninterrupted connectivity.
From the CEO of Bharti Airtel
Ayan Sarkar, CEO of Bharti Airtel West Bengal and Odisha, expressed, “Airtel is dedicated to pushing limits to enhance customer service. This endeavor to offer connectivity through the under-river tunnel will significantly benefit commuters, enabling them to enjoy High-Definition video streaming, gaming, messaging, quick photo uploads, and more, while experiencing the scenic beauty below the Ganges River.”
India’s pioneering underwater metro, linking Howrah and Kolkata, represents a remarkable feat of engineering and is set to open to the public in the near future.
First-of-its-Kind Connectivity
According to a statement from the company, Airtel will be the first operator to deliver uninterrupted connectivity across the 4.8km stretch of Kolkata’s East-West Metro corridor, linking Howrah Maidan with the Esplanade. High-capacity nodes have been strategically deployed at each station along this corridor, ensuring commuters have access to high-speed internet, voice calls, and data transmission.
The 520-meter tunnel, part of the East-West Metro Corridor in Kolkata, was completed in 2021, with a trial run conducted in August 2022. Scheduled to open in June 2024, the tunnel promises a seamless internet connection, facilitating hassle-free travel for commuters.
Overcoming Challenges
Despite challenges posed by the moist soil beneath the sea during construction, engineers and laborers successfully completed the tunnel’s construction. This underwater passage, connecting Salt Lake Sector V in the east to Howrah Maidan in the west, heralds a new era in transportation, offering enhanced connectivity and convenience to passengers.
Milestone in Infrastructure
With a depth of 32 meters, 12 stations, trains reaching speeds of 80 km/h, and a capacity of 375 passengers, the tunnel represents a significant milestone in Kolkata’s transportation infrastructure.
