Verizon Wireless sees surge in calls as Amtrak trains are stranded

Telecomworldwire, May 26, 2006

TELECOMWORLDWIRE-26 May 2006-Verizon Wireless sees surge in calls as Amtrak trains are stranded(C)1994-2006 M2 COMMUNICATIONS LTD http://www.m2.com

US wireless carrier Verizon Wireless said it handled ten times the usual number of calls between 0900 and 1000 local time one morning earlier this week when thousands of commuters were stranded on Amtrak trains.

The trains stopped in tunnels under the Hudson River in the US following a power outage. Verizon Wireless said although there was a significant surge in calling, it did not experience any abnormal call blocking and noted regular call volumes outside of the tunnels.

According to the carrier, its high-speed wireless broadband data network also dealt with three times the amount of normal traffic, as notebook computers, PDAs and EVDO-capable phones were used by commuters.

Verizon Wireless is currently the only wireless carrier to provide service in the Amtrak tunnels which run between New York and New Jersey in the US. The company reconfirmed its commitment to providing a reliable service, with regular testing and substantial investment in redundancy capabilities, ensuring the network remains operational during emergencies.

((Comments on this story may be sent to tww.feedback@m2.com))