Guangzhou subway network achieves continuous 5G coverage

On October 17, Guangzhou Metro Group announced the completion of its 5G communication network upgrade, marking a significant milestone as the entire metro network transitions into the 5G era. Passengers can now enjoy seamless internet service whether they are at the station or aboard the moving trains.

This ambitious upgrade was a collaborative effort between Guangzhou Metro Group and the Guangdong branch of China Tower Corporation. The project primarily focused on areas within the stations and tunnels, which posed unique challenges due to the enclosed nature of these spaces. The integration of high-tech equipment required precise coordination and a high level of accuracy, made even more complex by the significant passenger volume the metro typically handles.

To ensure that normal operations weren’t disrupted, the construction was limited to a narrow timeframe of just 2.5 hours during the early morning when trains were not in service. At peak times, as many as 800 workers were simultaneously engaged across 12 different lines.

The upgrade has successfully extended 5G coverage across approximately 800 kilometers of existing double-direction lines, establishing itself as the largest demonstration project of its kind in the nation’s rail transit sector. With the continuous 5G signal now available, the average data speed for passengers traveling through tunnels has surged from 70-80 Mbps to an impressive 400-600 Mbps, significantly enhancing the browsing experience on the go.

Looking ahead, Guangzhou Metro plans to continue its partnership with China Tower to deepen the 5G network coverage, aiming to provide passengers with even more advanced communication technologies and a better overall network experience.