Mumbai Metro-3 Phase 2 Opens, Passengers Complain of Lost Mobile Network Signals in Underground Stations

The second phase of Mumbai Metro-3, from BKC to Acharya Atre Chowk in Worli, was recently opened for passenger service.

As the second phase of Mumbai Metro-3, spanning from BKC to Acharya Atre Chowk in Worli, commenced passenger services recently, a unique issue has come to light. With all Metro-3 stations located underground, a complete loss of mobile network signals is encountered upon entering the stations.

This has posed difficulties for passengers, especially since mobile network service is yet to be introduced in the underground sections. Consequently, even attempting to book tickets through mobile apps proves troublesome.

In response to this, Mumbai Metro-3 has issued specific guidelines for passengers. The Metro-3 administration is advising travelers to book their tickets via the “Metro Connect 3” mobile app prior to entering the metro station. The notification also includes a breakdown of the app's operation for ticket purchase.

Moreover, an option for purchasing tickets with cash is available at every station.

Passengers have noted that network signal is entirely lost upon entering the Metro-3 stations, rendering phones unusable during the metro ride. It’s been claimed that the telecom infrastructure for the Aqua Line has been stalled due to disputes with cellular operators over policy matters. However, MMRC has refuted all such allegations.

“To facilitate cellular connectivity for all passengers within the underground metro system, MMRC invited tenders for the construction of neutral/shared infrastructure that could be utilized by any telecom company. This procedure is in accordance with the best practices employed by other large-scale infrastructure projects in India, such as airports and metro rail systems. MMRC engaged in an open tender process to appoint a neutral infrastructure provider. Telecom companies also issued letters of support to the participating bidders, thus legitimizing the tender process. The selected neutral infrastructure provider possesses all the necessary licenses to construct and operate the infrastructure. Therefore, any allegations of unlawful activity against MMRC in this process are entirely false,” MMRC stated.