Vodafone Idea deploys latest technologies to enhance network experience for customers in Mumbai Metro

Vodafone Idea Ltd., the largest mobile operator in India, is on a major network modernization exercise in Mumbai metro. The operator is deploying new technologies such as Massive MIMO, Small Cells, TDD sites to enhance coverage and network capacity in the metro city.

Addressing the digital connectivity needs of its millions of customers in Mumbai, Vodafone Idea has deployed more than 5,000 Massive MIMO, small cells and TDD sites across several regions such as Church gate, Prabhadevi, Pali hill, Lokhandwala, Versova, Andheri, Jogeshwari, Bandra and Dadar. The operator has also installed over 1900 dedicated indoor coverage solutions for high rises and commercial places. The momentum of deploying latest technologies to enhance network capacity and coverage for richer customer experience will continue over the next few months.

Earlier speaking about this mammoth network integration and consolidation project, 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 optimize 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.”

As part of the network consolidation exercise – the largest such integration in the world – Vodafone Idea has also done 4G spectrum refarming in Mumbai. This has resulted in upto 2X* faster speed for 4G customers in the metro. Speaking on the occasion, Sunil Tolani, Business Head – Vodafone Idea Ltd. said “I am happy to announce that ‘Mumbai just got 2X faster’ which means that our customers will now experience 2X download speeds on the 4G network. We will be utilizing 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”.

The 150th Massive MIMO site was installed in Andheri and inaugurated by Sunil Tolani, Business Head – Vodafone Idea Ltd.
Massive MIMO is a 5G technology wherein instead of single antenna, an array of antennas are used to increase the capacity and speed manifold. MIMO sites not only give higher speed but multiple antennas spread in angular shapes cover wider range than conventional antennas. These are used in areas of high footfall and traffic. Small Cells are electronics used in congested lanes where normal sites are not possible.