Today’s telecom news includes announcements on lack of signal in Mumbai Metro, Bell Canada outage, KPN, Viettel securing 700MHz spectrum for 4G and 5G expansion in Vietnam.
No Signal in Mumbai Metro: Telecom Operators Accuse Metro of Blocking Network Access
The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) reported that telecom providers were denied direct access to deploy mobile networks in Mumbai Metro Line 3’s underground segment, specifically the BKC-Worli section. Commuters reported no signal. Telecom companies had offered to install a shared in-building solution at no cost, but the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC) selected a third-party vendor via open tender. COAI stated this violates Right of Way provisions in the Telecommunication Act. In comparison, projects like Central Vista and the PWD tunnel in Delhi allowed shared telecom infrastructure. The MMRC responded that tunnel space constraints required common infrastructure and that the selected model aligns with practices in other metros and airports. COAI raised concerns about safety risks and limited commuter connectivity. Metro Line 3 is expected to extend to Cuffe Parade by August 2025. The dispute reflects challenges in telecom infrastructure deployment in public transport systems, The Indian Express reports.
Bell Canada Outage Hits 130,000 Users: Internet Services Disrupted Across Quebec and Ontario
On May 21, 2025, Bell Canada experienced a network outage that disrupted internet access in Quebec and Ontario. The outage began at 9 a.m. ET, peaking with over 130,000 user reports on Downdetector. By 11:19 a.m., reports dropped to about 2,000 as service was being restored. Bell Canada, part of BCE Inc., serves 4.4 million high-speed internet subscribers. The company confirmed it was working to resolve the issue quickly. Although the precise number of users affected was not confirmed, the outage emphasized reliance on continuous internet service. Downdetector aggregates real-time service disruptions based on user submissions. The incident highlighted the importance of network stability and rapid response as telecom providers work to maintain and improve digital infrastructure. Events like this underline ongoing efforts in the telecom sector to strengthen service resilience and minimize the impact of technical disruptions on users,Reuters reports.
1GLOBAL Revolutionizes KPN iPhone Transfers with One-Click eSIM Solution
1GLOBAL has launched an innovative One-Click eSIM subscription transfer solution for KPN customers, enabling seamless eSIM transfers between iPhones. This new feature eliminates the need for QR codes or customer support, improving the user experience. The solution is powered by 1GLOBAL’s GSMA-accredited SM-DP+ and Entitlement Server platforms, which are utilized by over 55 mobile operators worldwide. The One-Click transfer ensures that customers can transfer their data and retain their phone number and plan with a simple tap. The solution aligns with Apple’s latest specifications and provides secure and fast data transfer, enhancing usability and convenience for KPN subscribers. It also supports other features such as physical SIM to eSIM upgrades and Apple Watch re-pairing. This marks a significant step in reducing friction for mobile users when switching devices, ensuring that telecom service transitions are smooth and efficient.
Viettel Secures 700MHz Spectrum to Power Vietnam’s 4G and 5G Expansion
Viettel, a leading telecom operator in Vietnam, secured rights to the 700MHz spectrum band through an auction, investing US$78.4 million. The acquisition is crucial for expanding 4G and 5G services nationwide, especially in remote and rural areas. The 700MHz band is ideal for long-range coverage with better building penetration, which reduces deployment costs in hard-to-reach locations. Viettel aims to provide 99 percent mobile connectivity across Vietnam by 2030 and is planning to deploy over 20,000 5G base stations by 2025. The company’s strategic investment aligns with its broader goal to enhance digital services in sectors such as education, remote work, and IoT. The move underscores Viettel’s commitment to improving mobile broadband access across the country and ensuring efficient use of spectrum to boost mobile connectivity. This expansion is a key step toward meeting growing data demand and supporting digital infrastructure.
TelecomLead.com News Desk