Canadians have called for dependable telecom services when using public transit, including access to emergency services. To meet this need, the Government of Canada is taking proactive steps to compel all telecom providers on Toronto's subway system to establish cellular connectivity promptly.
Achieving this goal will necessitate network upgrades to increase capacity and broaden coverage across the Toronto subway network.
“Cellular connectivity on the subway is about more than just convenience. It is a critical public safety matter. TTC passengers have waited too long to access cellular services when riding the subway,” said the Honorable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry.
The newly imposed spectrum license conditions mandate that carriers extend cellular connectivity to all Toronto subway commuters in the coming weeks. These conditions take immediate effect, obligating all mobile carriers currently serving Toronto to ensure uniform service quality for Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) subway riders by October 3, 2023.
Additionally, they must swiftly commence network expansion efforts, guaranteeing comprehensive voice, text and data service coverage throughout the TTC subway system within clearly defined and ambitious timeframes.
Furthermore, carriers must ensure service availability in all applicable stations and tunnels as they become operational according to the TTC's schedule.
Failure to meet these stipulated conditions could result in monetary penalties or the suspension or revocation of carriers' spectrum licenses.
