Nokia, Alstom to Deploy a Private Wireless Network in India

Nokia announced Tuesday a collaboration with Alstom to deliver a private wireless network for the National Capital Regional Transport Corporation’s Delhi-to-Meerut Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS).   

As such, the network will support European Train Control System (ETCS) Level two signaling to preserve safety for commuters on the high-speed rail route, currently under construction.  

Nokia said in a press release said that “the fully redundant private network, based on the Nokia Modular Private Wireless solution (MPW) including its latest AirScale radios, Air Frame-based evolved packet core capabilities, the 7250 IXR IP/MPLS backhaul routers, Group Communication platform for mission-critical push to talk/video (MCx/GC) and Network Services Platform (NSP) management, will span the 82 km rail route which incorporates 25 stations.”  

“Expected to be fully operational in 2025, the low-emission RRTS will transport more people at average speeds of 100 kmph to reduce travel time and road congestion,” the Finnish multinational telecommunications firm said.  

In addition, the private network is being deployed to support ETCS Level two and three signaling as well as automated operation (ATO), which allows trains to use radio signals to receive their movement authorities continuously. It also allows reporting their exact direction and position to guarantee the safety of all on board.   

The importance comes from introducing LTE/4.9G technology for ETCS for railway operators, paving the way for a smooth transition to Future Railway Communication System (FRMCS).  

Thameem Kamaldeen, Managing Director Alstom Digital Mobility, Alstom Transport India, said: “We are pleased to work with Nokia, leveraging its extensive private wireless capabilities for the advanced signaling system that we are providing for NCRTC. The new high-speed rail network will help to transform the region.”  

On his part, Kamal Ballout, Head of Enterprise Solutions CHIMEA (China, India, Middle East, and Africa) at Nokia, said: “Nokia has supported the digital transformation of more than 380 enterprises across diverse industries through our private wireless solutions.”  

He added: “Nokia advanced railway solutions are designed to deliver a new level of connectivity for rail operators. Teams need to be aware of train positions in real-time to ensure the safety of passengers, and private wireless offers the security, reliability, and high-speeds required to enable this.”