Bengaluru's Free Wi-Fi Initiative Halted After Only One Company Shows Interest

Bengaluru: The Urban Development Department (UDD) of the Karnataka Government has temporarily suspended the initiative to set up 5,000 free Wi-Fi hotspots in Bengaluru. The suspension follows after only one company expressed interest in taking up the project.According to a Deccan Herald report, SR Umashankar, UDD Additional Chief Secretary, returned the file to the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) earlier this month for further action. He said, "Only one firm, ACT Group, has submitted a proposal to provide free Wi-Fi hotspots. We need to review similar proposals from other telecom and broadband service providers before making a final decision," as quoted by DH.The DH report mentioned that the free Wi-Fi hotspot initiative was first proposed about six years ago by IT and BT Minister Priyank Kharge. The initiative was revived last year as part of the state government's 'Digital Karnataka' initiative.ACT Group, an internet service provider, submitted a proposal offering free Wi-Fi for the first hour, with plans to establish around 3,000 poles and display its logo. The company mentioned that it has extensive experience with similar projects, including the installation of 4,000 hotspots in Hyderabad and a planned rollout in Chennai. The DH report added that a pilot project was also conducted in Malleswaram in 2019. However, there has been no response from the company regarding its plan to cover infrastructure and service costs. Also Read: Bengaluru Double-Decker Flyover: Boon For Commuters, But Bane For Residents? In another news, the city welcomed its first double-decker flyover in July, a first for South India after over a month of waiting due to the non-availability of a VIP for the inauguration. The flyover connects parts of Bengaluru South to Silk Board and beyond bringing a respite to citizens who used to be stuck at the infamous Silk Board junction for hours together.