TRAI Evaluates Network Quality in Pune and Nearby Areas
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has unveiled its Independent Drive Test (IDT) results for the Pune Licensed Service Area, conducted in September 2025. The comprehensive tests spanned over 415 kilometers, assessing mobile network performance across various environments, including urban areas and public transport hubs. The findings, which cover technologies from 2G to 5G, have been shared with telecommunications service providers for necessary improvements.
Comprehensive Testing Across Pune
Between September 8 and September 12, 2025, TRAI teams executed extensive drive tests throughout Pune and its surrounding areas. The evaluation included 379.9 kilometers of city driving, a 27-kilometer metro drive, 14 hotspot assessments, and an 8.6-kilometer walk test. The tests aimed to capture real-world mobile network performance in diverse settings, such as urban zones, institutional hotspots, and high-speed corridors. The results reflect the service experience of users across various handset capabilities, providing a detailed overview of the current state of mobile connectivity in the region.
The drive tests were conducted under the supervision of the TRAI Regional Office in Bengaluru, utilizing calibrated equipment and standardized protocols to ensure accuracy. The findings have been communicated to all relevant telecommunications service providers, prompting them to take necessary actions to enhance service quality.
Key Performance Indicators Evaluated
The IDT focused on several critical parameters for both voice and data services. For voice services, the assessment included metrics such as Call Setup Success Rate (CSSR), Drop Call Rate (DCR), Call Setup Time, Call Silence Rate, Speech Quality (Mean Opinion Score), and overall coverage. In terms of data services, the evaluation examined Download and Upload Throughput, Latency, Jitter, Packet Drop Rate, and Video Streaming Delay.
In the voice services category, Airtel achieved a remarkable 100% Call Setup Success Rate, while BSNL, Reliance Jio (RJIL), and Vodafone Idea (VIL) followed with rates of 94.72%, 98.24%, and 98.99%, respectively. The Drop Call Rate was notably low for Airtel and RJIL at 0.13%, while BSNL and VIL reported rates of 8.68% and 0.38%. These metrics provide a clear picture of the voice service quality experienced by users in Pune.
Data Services Performance Overview
The assessment of data services revealed significant differences in performance among the providers. Airtel recorded an average download speed of 90.05 Mbps, while BSNL lagged behind with just 1.26 Mbps. Reliance Jio led the pack with an impressive 143.94 Mbps, and Vodafone Idea reported 26.45 Mbps. For upload speeds, Airtel again topped the list at 17.33 Mbps, with BSNL at 2.09 Mbps, RJIL at 20.77 Mbps, and VIL at 11.36 Mbps.
Latency measurements also varied, with Airtel achieving a 50th percentile latency of 24.15 ms, while BSNL’s latency was significantly higher at 58.50 ms. The tests also included performance evaluations in high-density areas and hotspots, providing insights into how well networks perform under crowded conditions. The results underscore the need for continuous improvements in data service quality across all providers.
Real-World Conditions and Future Steps
The drive tests encompassed high-density neighborhoods such as Chakan, Talegaon Dabhade, and Kothrud, as well as key locations like the Aga Khan Palace and Pune University. The walk tests focused on busy pedestrian areas, including the Pune Railway Station and local bus stands, to assess network behavior in crowded environments. The metro drive tests were conducted along significant routes to evaluate service quality during transit.
The detailed report of the IDT findings is available on the TRAI website, providing transparency and insights into mobile network performance in Pune. For further information or clarification, stakeholders can reach out to TRAI’s Regional Office in Bengaluru. The results highlight the ongoing efforts to enhance mobile connectivity and service quality in the region, ensuring that users have access to reliable and efficient telecommunications services.
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