CABINET APPROVES 5 MHz SPECTRUM FOR RAILWAYS

CABINET APPROVES 5 MHz SPECTRUM FOR RAILWAYS

Subject : Economy

Context : The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved the allotment of 5 Mhz spectrum in the premium 700 MHz band to the Railways for captive use in areas of public safety and security services.

Concept :

• With this spectrum, the Railways will introduce Long-Term Evolution (LTE)-based Mobile Train Radio Communication (MTRC) on its routes.
• This will help prevent train accidents and reduce delays by enabling real-time interaction between the Loco Pilot, Station Master and the Control Centre.
• The project, targeted to be completed in five years, is estimated to cost over ₹ 25,000 crore.

Long Term Evolution (LTE) in Railways

• LTE in Indian Railways will be used to provide secure & reliable voice, video & data communication services for operational, safety & security applications.
• It will be used for modern signaling & train protection systems. LTE can ensure seamless communication between loco pilots & guards and can enable Internet of Things (IoT) based remote asset monitoring of coaches, wagons & locos.
• It can also enable live video feed of CCTV cameras in train coaches to ensure safer, efficient and faster train operations.

Spectrum Charges

• Spectrum charges may be levied on the basis of formula as prescribed by Department of Telecommunications for Royalty Charges and License Fee for Captive use on recommendations of Telecom Regulatory Authority of India.