Train journeys just got a major digital upgrade.
At India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2025, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) announced a landmark partnership with ACES India, a technology solutions firm specializing in smart venue connectivity. Together, they will deploy high-speed 4G and 5G networks across more than 7,000 railway stations in India, creating one of the world’s largest integrated mobility and connectivity grids.
For India’s 23 million daily rail passengers, this collaboration means more than faster internet. From seamless e-ticketing and real-time train tracking to streaming on-the-go and augmented reality (AR) navigation tools, railway travel will soon blend physical and digital convenience.
ACES India’s venue-based network architecture will enable ultra-low latency connectivity, essential for next-gen applications like crowd management systems, safety alerts, and IoT-enabled maintenance monitoring within station premises.
The rollout will begin in Q1 2026, prioritizing high-traffic zones such as Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, and Chennai, followed by nationwide expansion through 2027. BSNL officials project that this initiative will cover 80% of India’s major stations by the end of Phase 2, marking a pivotal stride toward the Digital India vision.
Speaking at IMC 2025, BSNL Chairperson P.K. Purwar said:
“With ACES India’s technical expertise, we aim to transform every railway platform into a high-speed digital hub—fueling innovation, safety, and accessibility for millions.”
Beyond convenience, the initiative will bridge digital divides in semi-urban and rural regions where railway stations often serve as community connectivity anchors. Analysts say this project could also boost BSNL’s brand revival, positioning the state-owned telecom as a key player in India’s 5G revolution.
This partnership underscores how public-private synergy can redefine national infrastructure. As India’s trains race into a hyperconnected future, one question remains — what new digital services would you want on your next journey?
