Pune’s public Wi-Fi service, launched in 2018 under the Pune Smart City initiative, has come to an abrupt halt, affecting both residents and visitors. The service, which was available at 150 key public locations, including the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) headquarters, was aimed at promoting digital literacy by providing free internet access. Users could access 50 MB of free data at a speed of 512 kbps after logging in with their mobile number.
Suspension of Public Wi-Fi in Pune Causes Inconvenience, PMC Promises Resolution
Last week’s suspension of the service has caused significant inconvenience, particularly at the PMC headquarters, where visitors are now unable to complete tasks due to the absence of Wi-Fi. The service had been especially beneficial for students, including those preparing for competitive exams like UPSC and MPSC, as well as college students who needed internet access for their studies.
The termination of the Wi-Fi service was attributed to the cancellation of the contract with the private firm providing it, as revealed by a senior PMC official. However, Ganesh Sonune, another official from the PMC, reassured the public that the administration is actively working to resolve the issue. A new service provider will be appointed soon, and public Wi-Fi will be restored once the contract is finalized.
Setback for Pune’s Digital Ambitions as Public Wi-Fi Service Suspended
The suspension of this service is a setback for the PMC’s broader goal of transforming Pune into a fully digital city, where all citizens are digitally connected and literate. The public has expressed concerns about the lack of internet access, especially for those who relied on it for daily activities. The PMC has promised to restore the service promptly once the contract with a new provider is in place.
