MTN INSTALLS MAJOR TUNNEL CELLULAR LINKS

October 30 2000

The MTN GSM cellular system serving COAL-link trains between Richards Bay and Witbank is one of the largest cellular-linked tunnel systems in the world.

Recently installed by cellular network provider MTN, the fibre optic-linked cell extenders provide uninterrupted coverage in each of the 37 tunnels en route - some of them four kilometres long.

Brian Whiteford, MTN's regional network manager, said COAL-link operated the largest coal export railway line in the world, with more than two percent of the country's GDP coming from the export of this coal.

"For this reason, it was imperative that the system we installed provided private, undistorted and uninterrupted communication between train drivers and the central traffic control centre.  One of the biggest challenges was the remote rugged terrain, with little infrastructure, difficult access and power problems," Mr Whiteford said.

The technology that was installed allows for data controllers to identify each train, its position, communicate with it and to monitor its movement along the railway line.

Speaking at the opening of MTN's regional offices in Vryheid, Mr Whiteford said the company had invested more than R20-million in base stations in the area this year.

"We identified Vryheid as a core area of growth, being both a central point between Richards Bay and Witbank/Gauteng and as a community with mushrooming cellular usage.

"Since we installed the 20 additional cell sites, we have seen tremendous subscriber growth in the area," he said.

By establishing a presence in Vryheid, MTN is providing a world-class cellular network service in this area and can respond to any technical eventuality that may arise. The network expansion in the area is part of MTN's ongoing programme to provide cellular access to all areas and communities in South Africa. Currently over 80% of the  population have access to MTN's network which provides coverage over more than 50% of South Africa's geographical area.