Escalator installed at Lahore railway station. PHOTO: EXPRESS
LAHORE:
The much-publicized free Wi-Fi facility at Lahore railway station was suspended after railway authorities allegedly failed to make payments to the internet service provider, leaving passengers frustrated.
Commuters arriving at the station continued to scan QR codes displayed at various locations in an attempt to access the service, only to find that the facility was no longer operational.
Many passengers expressed their anger, calling the situation a “mockery” and questioning why the service was being advertised if payments had not been arranged.
The sources said the private company providing internet services had terminated its facilities after its bills remained unpaid. The company is said to have removed its Wi-Fi equipment from the station premises.
The free Wi-Fi initiative was launched on the instructions of Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi and was introduced at major railway stations, including Lahore and Karachi, to facilitate the journey of passengers.
Equipment had been installed at the main entrance and platforms two and four of the Lahore railway station. However, the devices have now been dismantled, leaving only empty light fixtures while signs advertising “Free Wi-Fi” remain displayed.
Passengers said they were confused upon arrival when they tried to scan QR codes, only to discover the system was inactive.
“It’s embarrassing. The first trains are not on time, and now even the promised Wi-Fi facility is not available,” said passenger Rahat Babar while speaking to Express News.
Another traveler, Mian Rashid, said passengers were already paying high prices for their tickets and receiving little in return other than inconvenience.
