The Elizabeth Line’s 4G infrastructure has officially been completed, enhancing connectivity in underground travel areas across London.
- Transport for London (TfL) is notably trailing behind other European cities in implementing underground mobile technology.
- Compared to Paris and Lisbon, London has sluggishly expanded underground network connectivity.
- Significant advancements are in progress to extend coverage to additional Underground lines soon.
- The collaboration between TfL and Boldyn Networks expects to enhance mobile connectivity for both customers and emergency services.
Transport for London (TfL) has completed the installation of 4G infrastructure across the subterranean sections of the Elizabeth Line, marking a significant step in enhancing underground mobile coverage within the city. This development offers travellers improved connectivity, aligning with global standards of underground communication. However, it has been observed that London still falls short compared to other major European capitals such as Paris, which achieved full 4G coverage on its metro by 2020, and Lisbon, which accomplished this feat in 2018.
London’s pace in deploying mobile infrastructure underground is considerably slower than its rapid adoption of other technologies, like contactless payments, where it led globally. TfL acknowledges that expanding 4G and future 5G across the transport network will enhance communication for its staff, providing better operational support and introducing the new Emergency Services Network (ESN). The ESN promises advanced communication benefits during emergencies, offering critical information in real-time.
Current efforts include extending connectivity across the Northern Line towards Morden and between King’s Cross St Pancras and Moorgate, anticipated by late 2025. The Bakerloo Line’s tunnel sections, along with parts of the Piccadilly and Victoria Lines, are also scheduled to receive mobile service soon.
Boldyn Networks, a leading neutral host network provider, secured a 20-year contract with TfL in 2021 to deliver high-speed connectivity throughout the London Underground. Boldyn’s initiative involves installing more than 2,000 kilometres of cabling and numerous radios, exclusively outside of service hours. This comprehensive effort ensures minimal disruption to daily transit operations while significantly boosting London’s underground infrastructure.
The completion of 4G on the Elizabeth Line highlights ongoing efforts to modernise London’s transport network, improving passenger experience and emergency service communication.
