Nokia and Alstom to deploy private wireless system in Delhi-Meerut RRTS Train Network

New Delhi, India (Urban Transport News): Nokia on January 25, 2022, announced that the company is working with Alstom to deliver a private wireless network for India's first Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) i.e. Delhi - Meerut RRTS Corridor of National Capital Regional Transport Corporation’s (NCRTC).  It will support European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 2 Signaling to maintain safety for commuters on the semi high-speed rail route which is currently under construction.

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.

The private network is being deployed to support ETCS Level 2 & 3 signaling as well as automated operation (ATO), which enables trains to use radio signals to continuously receive their movement authorities and to report their exact direction and position to ensure the safety of all on board. The introduction of LTE/4.9G technology for ETCS is an important asset for railway operators and will pave the way for a smooth transition to FRMCS (Future Railway Communication System).

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.

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. 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.

The 82.15 km Delhi - Meerut RRTS is the first in a phased development of a semi high-speed rail network that aims to enable sustainable economic and social development through enhanced connectivity in Delhi and the surrounding districts. Expected to be fully operational in 2025, the low-emission RRTS will transport more people at average speeds of 100kmph to reduce travel time and road congestion.