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India Takes Giant Step towards On-Train WiFi
(01 May 2008, BWCS Staff)The Indian Railways network has paved the way for the launch of a WiFi on trains system across the subcontinent by inaugurating its own satellite-based VSAT hub system. According to a press release this morning from the Government's Press Bureau, the system will herald a new era of communication services providing a number of new voice, data and video applications. The Indian government points out that the new services will include remote ticketing, data connectivity to remote locations including the Freight Operating Information System and reporting from accident sites. In the future, the VSAT system will also allow Indian Railways to install WiFi connectivity for passengers on its trains.
With the launch the new network, the government said it will hold a series of discussions with satellite-based internet solution providers with a view to providing internet access on trains. To begin with, the WiFi on-board services will be trialed on trains between Mumbai and Ahmedabad. After that, should the trial prove successful, the government plans to enter into a public / private partnership scheme to offer the service on major train routes across the country. Indian Railways have been trying to use various technologies such as WiMax to offer internet services on its trains, however till now; they have not made much headway in this direction.
The VSAT network has been provided by US satellite technology provider Hughes Networks. Prior to this, Indian Railways used hired hub services catering to only 200 terminals. With the commissioning of its own VSAT hub system, the train operator will be able to connect about 1,000 remote locations. This new system will help Railways provide voice and data connectivity at remotely located stations which are not yet covered by fixed and mobile telecoms networks.
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