The Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) has announced that they plan to install free Wi-Fi at 100 bus stops spread throughout the city. The RTA is planning to implement around 50 of these “Smart Bus Shelters” by December, with 50 more ready by the end of January.
We will be modifying the existing AC bus stops to accommodate the new features. Some of the busiest stops at key locations like Sheikh Zayed Road, Deira, Bur Dubai, Jumeirah, etc, have been identified,” said Mohammad Al Ali, Director of Buses at RTA’s Public Transport Agency. He went on to say, “We are in talks with some of the popular cafes and tea joints in the city to have their stalls inside the bus stops. It will be great to have them as that will give commuters a chance to grab snacks on the go.”
A smart bus shelter was on display at Gitex 2015, equipped with mobile charging ports, Wi-Fi supported by Du and a tiny cafe that serves tea, coffee and snacks. That’s right, you’ll also be able to have a snack while waiting for your bus. Another great feature of the new Smart Bus Shelter is the interactive kiosk that can allow you to pay utility bills, topping up your mobile balance, booking flight tickets, paying credit card bills, etc. You can also top up your existing Nol cards or purchase new ones at these kiosks.
“This is part of RTA’s effort to enhance the customer experience and make people happy while they use public transport. This goes in conjunction with the initiative of His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum [Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai] to make Dubai the smartest and happiest city in the world”
Surprisingly, the WiFi will only be available for a short, unspecified period of time, to ensure that there is no misuse of the facility. It is planned for your individual WiFI connection to be available for as long as the average waiting time at a particular bus stop. As to how commuters can gain access to the WiFi; they will have to enter their mobile no. and email address on the Wi-Fi UAE website, which will give them access to a link that will enable them to connect to the internet.
Since the WiFi is provided by Du, it is unsure if Etisalat customers will be able to access the free WiFi.
Source: Gulf News
