Mobile operators pull the plug on Metro 3 network
Mumbai: In a move that left thousands of commuters incommunicado,
Vodafone Idea
(Vi) and
Airtel
has abruptly suspended mobile services on Mumbai Metro Line 3, including the newly launched Phase 2A (BKC to Acharya Atre Chowk) and the operational Phase I (Aarey/JVLR to BKC).
The disruption began on May 13 without prior notice, despite Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (
MMRCL
) setting up the required underground infrastructure. Reliance Jio continues to offer limited connectivity — but only at SEEPZ station, where it installed active equipment. For the underground network, MMRCL had adopted a shared In-Building Solution (IBS) model by which a single vendor installs and manages common infrastructure to be used by all operators.
ACES was appointed neutral host through a bidding process in March 2024 and installed systems at all 16 operational stations.
However, telecom companies refused to join the unified network, citing unviable rates. They offered to provide free connectivity using their own infrastructure until commercial terms were finalised — a proposal not acceptable to MMRCL.
Vi was the first to go live when Phase I launched in October 2024 and later extended coverage to Phase 2A, opened on May 10, 2025.
by Taboola
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Airtel supported Phase I but did not commission its network on the new stretch. With both providers now offline, commuters face a blackout underground that affects calls, internet access, and UPI payments.
"There's no technical constraint. ACES installed all necessary infrastructure. We've issued notices to the telecom companies and are seeking explanations," said a senior MMRCL official. MMRCL has taken up the issue with the department of telecommunications.
"This is unacceptable and clearly amounts to cartelisation. Telecom operators cannot abruptly suspend services without warning. There are avenues to resolve such disputes — through dialogue, regulatory intervention, or even legal recourse. This act is akin to a strike by govt employees providing essential services. Such conduct is unbecoming of corporates, who are expected to act with greater responsibility," said Shirish Deshpande of Mumbai Grahak Panchayat.
Meanwhile, MMRCL has enabled free Wi-Fi access at concourse level for ticket booking via the MetroConnect3 mobile app, Ticket Vending Machines, Ticket Office Machines, and Unified Payments Interface.
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