The objective was to verify the actual quality of mobile network services delivered by Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) under real-world conditions.
How the Tests Were Conducted
TRAI captured live performance data using advanced test handsets and calibrated equipment. The sessions were monitored in real time and analysed using specialised software systems to ensure accuracy and transparency.
Key performance indicators (KPIs) assessed during the IDT included Call Setup Success Rate (CSSR), Drop Call Rate (DCR), Call Setup Time, Call Silence Rate, Mean Opinion Score (MOS), data download and upload throughput, and latency. The results have been shared with the respective operators for necessary corrective action where required.
Performance in Bikaner City, Nokha and Shri Dungargarh
In urban areas of Bikaner district, Airtel recorded a 100% Call Setup Success Rate in auto-selection mode (5G/4G/3G/2G), while Reliance Jio followed closely at 99.78%. Vodafone Idea registered 99.55%, and BSNL reported 95.61%.
Drop Call Rates remained at 0% for Airtel and Jio, while Vodafone Idea stood at 0.45% and BSNL at 0.92%. Speech quality measured through MOS scores showed Jio at 4.55 and Vodafone Idea at 4.53, indicating relatively strong call clarity.
On the data front, 5G download speeds reached 337.31 Mbps for Jio and 225.02 Mbps for Airtel. In 4G performance, Jio recorded 54.68 Mbps download speed, Airtel 42.17 Mbps, Vodafone Idea 33.96 Mbps and BSNL 14.41 Mbps.
Deshnok–Norangdesar (NH-754A) Findings
The Deshnok to Norangdesar stretch, part of the Amritsar–Jamnagar Bharatmala National Highway (NH-754A), also underwent detailed evaluation. Airtel and Jio both achieved 100% Call Setup Success Rates on this route, while Vodafone Idea stood at 95.83% and BSNL at 74.07%.
Drop Call Rates were recorded at zero for Airtel, BSNL and Jio, while Vodafone Idea reported 4.35%. Data throughput showed Jio leading with 147.24 Mbps average download speed, followed by Airtel at 55.22 Mbps.
Latency performance varied significantly, with Jio recording 26.51 ms and Airtel 35.29 ms, while BSNL’s latency reached 231.04 ms on this stretch.
Pugal–Ranjeetpura (NH-911) Performance
The Pugal to Ranjeetpura stretch of NH-911 revealed more pronounced variations in service quality. Jio recorded a 100% Call Setup Success Rate, whereas Airtel stood at 88.64%, BSNL at 64.91%, and Vodafone Idea at 18.82%.
Drop Call Rates were notably higher on this highway segment, with Vodafone Idea at 31.25%, BSNL at 24.32%, Airtel at 12.82%, and Jio at 2.50%. These figures indicate challenges in maintaining stable voice connectivity along certain highway corridors.
In terms of data, Jio achieved 91.80 Mbps average download speed, followed by Airtel at 70.17 Mbps. Vodafone Idea recorded minimal download throughput at 0.04 Mbps and latency of 860.39 ms, reflecting substantial service limitations on this route.
Consumer Awareness and Regulatory Oversight
The drive test covered key locations including Nokha, Bikasar, Budhro ki Dhani, Rasisar, Palana, Gangashar, Norangdesar, Shri Dungargarh, Pugal and Ranjeetpura, among others. By publishing the findings, TRAI aims to enhance transparency and empower telecom consumers with performance insights.
The regulator emphasised that Independent Drive Tests form part of its broader Quality of Service monitoring framework. Operators are expected to review the findings and take appropriate steps to improve network performance where gaps have been identified.
Strengthening Digital Infrastructure
With rising data consumption and expanding 5G deployment, reliable mobile connectivity remains essential for urban residents and highway commuters alike. The latest IDT findings highlight both strengths and areas requiring attention across Bikaner district.
As digital adoption deepens across Rajasthan, sustained network investment and regular regulatory assessments will be key to ensuring seamless voice and data services for consumers.
