For the first time since Mumbai Metro 3 began operations, commuters are starting to get mobile connectivity inside the underground stretch of the corridor.

Airtel and Vodafone Idea (Vi) have begun rolling out network services across parts of the line, allowing passengers to make calls, send messages and access the internet in tunnels where phones previously lost signal.

The rollout remains limited to sections where telecom infrastructure has already been activated in phases.

Vi subscribers can currently access connectivity across 16 stations, from Aarey JVLR to Acharya Atre Chowk in Worli. Airtel’s network is available on 10 stations between Aarey JVLR and Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC).

Officials from the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC) said services are being activated gradually and coverage will expand further as installation work progresses.

The remaining stretch, from Science Centre to Cuffe Parade, is still being fitted with telecom infrastructure.

Vi has said work is underway across 11 stations on this section and that connectivity is expected to be rolled out in the coming weeks. Airtel is also expected to extend coverage as its deployment continues.

Unlike Airtel and Vi, Jio has not yet operationalised services on the corridor. Sources said the operator will need to set up fresh infrastructure before launching connectivity, which could take longer.

The delay followed a prolonged dispute over how telecom infrastructure would be implemented on the underground line.

MMRC had originally appointed ACES India to build and operate a neutral telecom network across Metro 3 stations. However, telecom operators objected to the proposed usage charges, arguing they were too high.

The disagreement stalled the project for months before MMRC scrapped the arrangement and issued fresh tenders in March.

In May, MMRC signed a revised agreement with Airtel, Jio and Vi, allowing the operators to build and operate telecom infrastructure themselves.

Under the agreement, the companies will deploy in-building solutions (IBS) and shared infrastructure across the underground corridor, which they will operate for the next 25 years.

Sources said the arrangement is in line with the Telecommunications (Right of Way) Rules, 2024, under which operators will pay a nominal fee to MMRC.

Full connectivity across the entire line will not be immediate. Operators are still laying fibre and completing civil work, meaning rollout will continue in stages over the coming months.

BSNL subscribers will have to wait longer still, with services expected to be introduced within the next six months.