Internet firms discuss free Wi-Fi with Delhi government

Several leading Internet and telecom sector companies have held discussions with the Arvind Kejriwal led-Delhi government regarding its ambitious city-wide free Wi-Fi project.

"Several international firms including Google, Facebook and Ericsson along with some domestic firms consulted with us and showed interest in the Wi-Fi project," a source in the Delhi government said.

Kejriwal presided over the meeting held on Friday. "Half of the discussion has been done and the remaining will likely be done on Sunday afternoon," the official said.

Dwarka legislator Adarsh Shastri, who is looking after the planning and consultation process of the project, confirmed about the interest shown by the companies.

"Several companies have contacted us in this connection. We will finalise the tender process in next few days," Shastri told IANS.

"A draft of the request for proposal (RFP) in this connection has been prepared and will soon be put before the chief minister for approval," he added.

The ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) had promised during assembly polls to make the national capital a free Wi-Fi zone.

Asked about the development, a Facebook spokesperson said, "Connecting the world and delivering Internet access through a variety of ways is core to our connectivity mission. We are committed to working with various government agencies to help make Digital India a reality."