Internet zones turn hangouts in Visakhapatnam

VISAKHAPATNAM: Wi-Fi zones are turning out to be hot spots in the city. Youths, especially students, are now seen spending a good amount of time at the Wi-Fi zones rather at their regular hangout places.

On a pilot basis, free Wi-Fi facilities are being provided at RK Beach, Vuda Park and Kailasagiri in the city by BSNL, in collaboration with Quad Gen and Reliance Jio.

During a ground reality check at these zones, the websites and videos were found opening at high speed without buffering. Speaking to Deccan Chronicle, many youths on the Beach Road said they are using the free Wi-Fi connection for both entertainment and education purpose.

While surfing internet through Wi-Fi near Kali Matha Temple, L. Manoj, a B.Tech student, said, “I mostly use it for downloading songs, academics-related PDF files and also to upgrade mobile apps.

This is a good facility which could be used for both entertainment and education.” Another youth, P. Anil, who regularly uses the facility, said the time restriction should be extended to one hour from 30 minutes.

“In our college Wi-Fi zone, a lot of websites are restricted for various reasons. It is being very helpful during examination times to download various question sets and video lectures,” he added.  Moreover, youths are observed thronging the beach in the night too as traffic flow over Wi-Fi network remains very less.

The Wi-Fi service has also been of great help to the tourists who are promptly using the facility, instead of their SIM network which attracts roaming charges. However, some youths are also ignorant about the facilities as the service providers have failed to advertise about it.

There are no hoardings or signboards regarding it. “I did not know such a service is available. I would surely try it out next time I visit those zones,” said Krishna, a student.