Chennai Corporation Restores Free Wi-Fi at 44 Public Spots

Connectivity Returns to Public Spaces

The Greater Chennai Corporation has switched back on free Wi-Fi at 44 locations across the city, bringing relief to residents who rely on public internet for work, studies, and daily chores. The service, which had been disrupted, is now live at parks, bus stands, and other high-footfall areas, officials confirmed on Tuesday.

This restoration is part of the civic body's ongoing effort to make the city more digitally inclusive. With many Chennaiites still dependent on public hotspots for basic online tasks, the move is expected to ease the burden on those without private data plans.

Where the Service is Available

The 44 restored hotspots are spread across all 15 zones of the city, ensuring that no single neighbourhood is left out. Key locations include major bus termini, prominent parks like Nageswara Rao Park, and community halls that see steady visitor traffic.

A Corporation official said the selection was based on usage data and requests from local residents. "We prioritised spots where people gather for leisure or wait for transport, as these are where the need is highest," the official added.

How to Access the Network

Users can connect to the network by selecting the designated SSID on their devices and completing a one-time registration via an OTP. The service offers a daily data limit, after which users can reconnect the next day, though the exact cap has not been publicly detailed.

Corporation staff have been tasked with monitoring the network's performance and addressing any technical glitches promptly. Past issues with connectivity speed and dropped signals had drawn complaints, and officials say they have upgraded backend systems to avoid a repeat.

Impact on Students and Daily Commuters

Students, in particular, are expected to benefit, as several of the restored locations are near colleges and study centres. For daily wage workers and commuters, the free Wi-Fi means they can check transport schedules, make digital payments, or stay in touch with family without spending on mobile data.

Local resident associations have welcomed the restoration, calling it a "practical step" towards bridging the digital divide. However, some have urged the Corporation to expand the number of hotspots further, especially in the city's northern fringes where connectivity remains patchy.

What's Next

The Corporation is now reviewing proposals to add more locations in the next phase, with a focus on markets and residential welfare association offices. Officials say they will also publish usage statistics periodically to ensure the service is being utilised effectively, and will invite feedback from the public to fine-tune the rollout.