Following the scrapping of the contract between MMRCL and its third-party service provider ACES, telcos noted that the metro authority floated a new tender for setting up IBS network along the aqua line
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Airtel and Vodafone Idea have backed an application from Reliance Jio asking the Mumbai metro to grant rights to operate indoor mobile network on an immediate basis to resume cellular services in the city’s first underground metro line (Aqua line)
In a joint letter, Bharti Airtel, Vodafone Idea (Vi) and Jio asked the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (MMRCL) to let TSPs install new IBS network or purchase and use existing IBS network to avoid delays.
Following the scrapping of the contract between MMRCL and its third-party service provider ACES, telcos noted that the metro authority floated a new tender for setting up IBS network along the aqua line.
“All TSPs hereby extend their full support towards grant of Right of Way permission for Jio, in the larger interest of ensuring seamless connectivity across the Mumbai Metro network on a single network,” said the letter pointing out that Jio had already sought Right of Way permission from MMRCL for setting up mobile network in the area, a day before the tender was floated.
It also noted that the fresh tender too levied exorbitant charges for space, which does not align with the principle of “just compensation,” affecting the timely deployment of telecom infrastructure. The reserve price for rental is about ₹1,000 per sq. ft. in MMRCL tender for what telcos describe as “the most un-usable areas at the stations.” In comparison, most premium commercial space at Nariman Point charged ₹250 – 300 рer sq.ft. By granting RoW to Jio, TSPs will not have to provide any comfort letter to any IBS provider.
Earlier, telco representative body, Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI), was reported to be in talks with metro authorities to discuss managing of ACES infrastructure. As per sources, entities discussed one TSP serving as a lead operator buying existing equipment and offering it to others at cost based pricing.
Published on March 23, 2026
