Representative body, Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI), is in talks with Mumbai metro authorities about setting up network infrastructure along the newly built aqua line, as per sources.
Industry sources confirmed discussions between COAI and the Mumbai Metro Railway Limited (MMRCL) on managing ACES infrastructure following the scrapping of its third-party contract.
The metro authority can offer right of way to telecom service providers (TSPs) to build joint infrastructure with one TSP as the lead operator. Further, if ACES is willing to sell off its assets, one of the TSP can buy the existing equipment and offer it to others at cost based pricing. Based on the commercial feasibility of existing infrastructure, MMRCL will go for fresh call for a service provider with lower charges for use of space for telecom equipment. Earlier, telcos had complained of unviable rates offered by Mumbai authorities’ selected partner for using its network equipment.
Until then, Vodafone Idea (Vi) as well as BSNL that were providing services via ACES are switched off on the metro line.
“Vi services on the Mumbai metro line are currently impacted .As per the MMRCL arrangement, Vi’s connectivity was being provided via ACES, whose primary contract with MMRCL is now terminated. Despite our readiness, factors involved are beyond our direct control. However, we remain committed to working with MMRCL and exploring options to reinstate our services for our customers convenience at the earliest,” said Vi spokesperson.
Meanwhile, ACES wrote to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and the Union Ministry of Communications for a meeting on the matter. Indus Towers has also been seeking support from all telcos for a comfort letter to engage with metro authorities for in-building solutions (IBS). ACES asked that Indus to take a ‘wait and watch’ approach until they speak to the government. However, telcos are optimistic of a favourable response even in case of government intervention, considering earlier government orders recognising metros as ‘public spaces’ where established TSPs get preference for service provision.
Published on March 21, 2026
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