Airtel launches seamless mobile network on Vidyasagar Setu

Bharti Airtel on Wednesday announced the launch of seamless mobile connectivity on Kolkata’s iconic Vidyasagar Setu, becoming the first telecom operator to provide uninterrupted voice and data services on the busy bridge over the Hooghly River.

The initiative aims to eliminate call drops and data disruptions on the critical arterial link connecting Kolkata and Howrah, which witnesses heavy vehicular movement round the clock. As part of the project, Airtel laid nearly 1.3 kilometres of optical fibre across the entire stretch of the bridge and installed network antennas on six strategically located poles to ensure consistent coverage and zero drop zones.

The telecom major said the project was implemented in coordination with the Government of West Bengal, the West Bengal Police Traffic Department and the Hooghly River Bridge Commissioners (HRBC), highlighting the importance of inter-agency collaboration in strengthening urban infrastructure.

Ayan Sarkar, Chief Executive Officer of Bharti Airtel for West Bengal and Odisha, said reliable connectivity on Vidyasagar Setu is crucial not only for daily commuters but also for emergency response services and efficient traffic management systems.

Airtel further stated that the company has significantly strengthened its network infrastructure across the state, having deployed over 5,250 new network sites in West Bengal during the past three years to enhance coverage, capacity and data speeds.