Karachi Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab announced the launch of free WiFi services at all major parks and recreational spots in the city.
The initiative aims to provide citizens with seamless internet access to stay connected, especially in popular outdoor spaces.
While inaugurating the free WiFi service at Frere Hall, the Mayor emphasized that the facility would soon be extended to other well-known parks such as Bagh Ibn-e-Qasim, Kidney Hill Park, Hill Park, Safari Park, and Lake Park, as well as other major public spaces under the administration of the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC).
“Karachi has now joined the ranks of cities offering such services to its residents. With the increasing use of smartphones, the availability of WiFi at recreational spots has become a necessity,” said Mayor Wahab.
He further highlighted the importance of providing modern amenities in public spaces, drawing a comparison with elite clubs such as the Gymkhana.
“If such facilities are available to the upper classes, why can’t similar offerings be extended to the lower and middle classes?” he questioned, stressing the need for IT centers, restaurants, and recreational facilities in major parks to ensure that all citizens can make the most of these spaces.
The free WiFi service at Frere Hall, which supports up to 2,000 users simultaneously, will be available 24/7, ensuring that visitors can access the internet and social media with ease.
The facility at Frere Hall marks the first step in a broader plan to offer this service at several other recreational spots across the city, with the goal of creating more inclusive and accessible spaces for the people of Karachi.
In addition to the WiFi service, Mayor Wahab also announced other initiatives aimed at enriching the cultural experience at Frere Hall. The library section of the historical building has been air-conditioned, providing visitors with a more comfortable environment. Soon, the library will offer classes for playing traditional musical instruments such as tabla, piano, and sitar.
Furthermore, the Mayor revealed plans to host traditional music performances at Frere Hall to entertain visitors, further enhancing the cultural vibrancy of the space.