Vodafone Idea Limited, which is now the biggest telecom operator in India by subscriber base has been on a massive network modernisation exercise, and this time the area which the telecom operator has targeted is Mumbai Metro. Before this, Vodafone had also deployed the latest technology infrastructure in the Noida, NCR region for upgradation of the 4G network and to avail better 4G service to the subscribers. This exercise also makes the network ready for 5G adoption. As part of its network modernisation exercise, the telecom operator is deploying Massive MIMO, Small Cells, TDD sites which will enhance coverage and network capacity in the city.
Over 5,000 Massive MIMO, Small Cells and TDD Sites Deployed
Vodafone Idea has announced that to address the digital connectivity needs of its subscribers in the Mumbai region; it has deployed more than 5,000 Massive MIMO, small cells and TDD sites across several locations like Church Gate, Prabhadevi, Pali Hill, Lokhandwala, Versova, Andheri, Jogeshwari, Bandra and Dadar. This exercise also involves installation of 1900 dedicated indoor coverage solutions for high rises and commercial places. The operator has also said that this streak of new deployments and the introduction of the latest technology for better network services will go on for a few months.
Mr Vishant Vora, Chief Technology Officer, Vodafone Idea Ltd. said, “With meticulous pre-merger planning and rigorous post-merger execution, we have ensured that our customers remain confidently connected and enjoy uninterrupted services even as we integrate and optimise our network in a phased manner across circles. We have partnered the best of global vendors and equipment suppliers to bring the best network experience for our customers.”
Spectrum Reframing to Allow for Better Speeds in the Region
Vodafone Idea has also remarked that it has done 4G spectrum reframing in Mumbai and courtesy of that, now the subscribers are receiving twice as much 4G speeds in the metro. Sunil Tolani, Business Head – Vodafone Idea Ltd. Remarked about the latest deployment saying, “We will be utilising multiple media like OOH, radio and digital to reach out to our audience and hope they will enjoy the benefits of our focused network initiatives in Mumbai.” Tolani also inaugurated the 150th Massive MIMO site which was installed in Andheri.
Delhi NCR Region Also Receives Network Upgrade
It is worth noting that Massive MIMO is mainly a 5G technology where instead of a single antenna, an array of antennas are used which increase the speed and capacity manifold. The multiple antennas, spread in angular shapes also cover more area. In areas of high footfall and traffic, the Massive MIMO technology is of more use. Back in February, Vodafone Idea had also announced the installation of similar sites in the Delhi NCR region, and it had reported that already 4,000 Massive MIMO, small cells and TDD sites had been deployed there.
