Kathmandu: The installation of free WiFi service at New Bus Park, Gongabu, has elated the people leaving the Kathmandu Valley for different parts of the country by bus.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Chandra KC, who arrived at New Bus Park to purchase a ticket for his travel to Gulmi, expressed that the free WiFi service has won the customers’ hearts and eased transport. He emphasized the need for expanding such services to other places outside the Kathmandu Valley.
Similarly, Bhup Prasad Bhusal was pleased to discover the availability of free internet for the first time at New Bus Park. He was seeking service for traveling to the Dang district. Bhusal echoed KC’s recommendation for similar services outside the federal capital to facilitate travel.
An employee at the ticket counter, Bachchu Ram Bhatta, noted that the government’s provision of free WiFi has significantly facilitated customers. Dipak Dhakal, originally from the Dhading district, also appreciated the government’s initiative that benefited service seekers.
However, bus entrepreneur Ramesh Bhatta highlighted the importance of the sustainability of such services over their mere launch. Minister for Communications and Information Technology, Jagdish Kharel, had signed the first decision upon his assumption of office on September 22, focusing on the expansion of free internet in significant public places. This initiative was realized as per the Minister’s decision, with the service inaugurated on November 5.
With this new facility, customers can purchase bus tickets using digital gadgets and are provided with free internet access for 90 minutes at a time. Approximately 700 to 800 public buses operate from New Bus Park daily, including 400 large buses, 150 micro-buses, and over 200 local buses that serve the Kathmandu Valley.
It is reported that nearly 12,000 to 15,000 people use the New Bus Park each day.