The objective of the project was to introduce a TETRA radio system in the Učka Tunnel by upgrading the existing analog radio system. This implementation aimed to enable a common working group for all emergency services in the event of an accident and provide independent communication for the Ministry of the Interior (police, ambulance services, fire department) within the tunnel. The project was executed based on the Design & Build model, following a “key in hand” approach.
The TETRA system utilizes digital voice coding within the network, enabling high-quality voice communication, rapid call setup between endpoints, and ensuring protection against eavesdropping and unauthorized access.
A new TETRA base station was installed in the administrative building and connected to the existing central RF station, which transmitted the TETRA signal to the tunnel using fiber optic cables. In addition to the tunnel tubes themselves, the coverage extended to the access zones on both the Kvarner and Istrian sides, as well as the Zrinšćak 1 and Zrinšćak 2 tunnels.
The signal of the Ministry of the Interior’s TETRA network was retransmitted on the same frequency throughout the tunnel, utilizing the infrastructure of the existing radio system. The Ministry of the Interior maintained its channel (MUP.net) within the tunnel, operating on the frequency used on the Istrian side of the tunnel.
To facilitate coordinated action during incident situations within the tunnel and portal areas in the BINA.net system, a joint working group was established. This group can be utilized by all participating services, including the Ministry of the Interior, ambulance services, fire department, and others.
The new radio communication system is based on infrastructure equipment from DAMM Cellular Systems, a Danish manufacturer, and was operational before the start of the 2017 tourist season.