Kathmandu, September 2

Kathmandu Metropolitan City launched free Wi-Fi services at various World Heritages Sites, parks and tourist centres today.

KMC Mayor Bidya Sundar Shakya formally inaugurated the service in Pashupati area as per an earlier decision to provide free internet access in public places. Free Wi-Fi service will be provided in six public places in Kathmandu — Pashupati area, Basantapur area, Bouddhanath area and Swoyambhu area, Sankha park and Balaju Biasdhara Udhyan.

The free Wi-Fi service was launched as per the April 1 five-year agreement between KMC and Worldlink Communication Pvt Ltd.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Mayor Shakya said, “We have launched the service to fulfil the promise made in our election manifesto.” It is estimated that 200 to 500 people can simultaneously enjoy free internet service in each area.

Pashupati area has the highest 11 access points, followed by nine access points at Basantapur area, while Sankha park has only two access points.

A visitor to any one of these areas can avail free internet service for 30 minutes a day.

According to information technology division head of KMC Dhurba Kafle, visitors will get notification on their phone after entering the free Wi-Fi zone. The notification will lead to a website where the users will have to enter their mobile number. The company will then send a unique code, which allows visitors’ access to free internet.