Nokia & Constl to build DWDM optical network in India

Constl, a subsidiary of Space World Group, has partnered with Nokia for a pan-India deployment of a Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (DWDM) optical transport network. The project is designed to enhance data-centre and cloud connectivity across the region.

The companies confirmed that the build will commence in Mumbai, described as India's premier data-centre hub, before expanding nationally. The network is positioned as a core component of Constl's ongoing fibre rollout strategy.

Optical build

The deployment focuses on DWDM, a technology used to increase capacity on fibre networks by transmitting multiple wavelengths of light over a single strand. The companies linked the project to rising bandwidth demand across India's cloud, artificial intelligence workloads and over-the-top video and digital services.

Constl said it plans to provide high-capacity connectivity for metro networks and data centre interconnect. Nokia will act as the technology partner and will supply its 1830 Photonic Service Switch platforms for the optical transport network.

The announcement did not disclose financial terms, capacity targets, or service-level metrics, nor did it provide specific deployment timelines or the number of sites and routes included in the initial phase.

Furthermore, the companies did not identify specific data-centre operators, cloud providers, or telecommunications partners expected to utilise the network.

Mumbai first

The companies said the first phase will begin in Mumbai before moving into other parts of the country. They framed the initial roll-out around connectivity needs associated with the growth of data-centre capacity and cloud infrastructure in the city.

Constl also highlighted planned corridors linking major metros. It said it is "ready to deliver high-capacity services across key national corridors spanning Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Delhi over its NLD network."

Network demand

The companies tied the build to higher traffic volumes and more demanding applications. They said cloud computing, AI workloads and OTT services have increased bandwidth requirements. They also pointed to demand for lower latency links for applications described as mission critical.

In a statement, Space World Group Chairman and Founder Ankit Goel connected the partnership to broader national digital infrastructure ambitions.

"By bringing together Constl's nationwide fibre footprint with Nokia's advanced photonic technology, we're laying the foundation for the next generation of digital innovation in India. India's bold digital transformation ambitions demand infrastructure that can scale rapidly without compromising on reliability or performance - exactly what this partnership provides," said Ankit Goel, Chairman and Founder, Space World Group.

Nokia said the partnership sits within its optical networks business in Asia Pacific. It described the deployment as a step in optical transport for next-generation services.

"Our partnership with Constl marks a significant milestone for India's digital future. By deploying Nokia's advanced 1830 PSS optical transport network, we are providing the high-capacity, ultra-reliable foundation needed to power next-generation AI, cloud services, and seamless digital experiences. This collaboration ensures India remains at the forefront of innovation, delivering unparalleled connectivity for its citizens and businesses," said Vito Di Maria, Vice President of the Optical Networks, Asia Pacific, Nokia.

Market positioning

Constl positions itself as a provider of digital infrastructure for hyperscalers, telecommunications companies, and OTT (over-the-top) and content delivery network operators. The company describes its core asset as a pan-India, high-speed network.

Nokia positions itself as a connectivity supplier across fixed, mobile, and transport networks. For this project, it will supply the optical transport equipment utilised across the fibre routes included in the deployment.

The partners confirmed that the optical network will expand beyond Mumbai to cover the rest of India in alignment with Constl's ongoing fibre rollout.