Indian Railways to Receive Additional Spectrum for Safety and Security

 

 

 

Indian Railways is poised to enhance its safety and security infrastructure with the allocation of additional spectrum. This move aligns with the government's ongoing efforts to modernize the country's largest public transport network and ensure passenger safety. 

 

The spectrum, essential for implementing advanced communication and security technologies, will enable the integration of cutting-edge systems such as Real-Time Train Monitoring and Control (RTMC). This will enhance operational efficiency and significantly improve the safety of train operations. The new allocation will also support the deployment of long-term evolution (LTE)-based mobile train radio communication, ensuring seamless connectivity across rail networks.

 

Indian Railways has requested an additional 5 MHz of paired spectrum in the 700 MHz band at no cost to strengthen its safety and security systems, according to the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) under the Ministry of Communications. “In addition to the already assigned 5 MHz (paired) frequency spectrum in the 700 MHz frequency band, an additional 5 MHz (paired) frequency spectrum in the 700 MHz frequency band should be assigned to Indian Railways for its safety and security applications along the railway tracks for captive use,” said TRAI.

According to Telecom Regulator, DoT should take an early decision on the Authority’s earlier recommendation that to ascertain feasibility of radio access network (RAN) sharing, a field trial of RAN sharing through multi-operator core network (MOCN) may be conducted by the Ministry of Railways involving Indian Railways and NCRTC, under the supervision of DoT.

With railway operations becoming increasingly complex and passenger volumes growing, the additional spectrum will play a critical role in the rollout of advanced technologies such as collision avoidance systems, automated signaling, and AI-driven surveillance systems. These innovations aim to prevent accidents, streamline traffic management, and bolster the security of rail assets and passengers.

The Ministry of Railways has consistently prioritized technology-driven solutions to modernize its services. In recent years, the focus has shifted towards utilizing digital tools and advanced communication systems to address safety concerns. The proposed spectrum allocation reflects the government's commitment to this vision.

By adopting modern communication networks, Indian Railways is set to deliver a safer, more efficient, and technologically advanced service for millions of passengers daily. This step underscores the organization’s resolve to align with global safety standards while meeting the growing demands of India’s transport ecosystem.