Kathmandu: The installation of free WiFi service at New Bus Park in 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, said that the free WiFi service 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 expressed satisfaction with the availability of free internet for the first time at New Bus Park while seeking travel services to Dang district. Bhusal echoed KC’s recommendation, suggesting that even those outside the federal capital should have access to similar conveniences for travel.
An employee at the ticket counter, Bachchu Ram Bhatta, remarked that the government’s provision of free WiFi has significantly facilitated customers. Meanwhile, Dipak Dhakal from Dhading district also appreciated the government’s initiative, noting the positive impact on service seekers.
However, bus entrepreneur Ramesh Bhatta pointed out that the sustainability of such services is more crucial than their initial launch. The Minister for Communications and Information Technology, Jagdish Kharel, had prioritized the expansion of free internet in significant public places upon assuming office on September 22. The service at New Bus Park was inaugurated on November 5, following the Minister’s directive.
With the new facility, customers can purchase bus tickets using digital gadgets, enjoying 90 minutes of free internet access at a time. The New Bus Park operates around 700 to 800 public buses daily, including 400 large buses, 150 micro buses, and over 200 local buses within the Kathmandu Valley. Approximately 12,000 to 15,000 people utilize the New Bus Park each day.