Robi has embarked on a massive project to enable internet access using WiFi hotspots across Bangladesh. Over the next 6 months, the company is to provide high-speed WiFi service in 500 top restaurants, cafes and retail outlets; 100 educational institutions; 10 public places (airports and railway stations) and over 350 buses, taxis and trains.
Robi subscribers who have purchased a mobile internet pack of at least 1 GB would be eligible 
to receive free allowance of WiFi quota. In the buses, taxis and trains, WiFi will be available to all users with WiFi-enabled devices. In the future, Robi will offer various data bundles with WiFi quotas.
Axiata’s Bangladeshi operator has formed strategic partnerships with AccessTel, Qubee and Aamra for deploying and maintaining the WiFi hotspots. For rolling out WiFi in the buses and taxis, Robi has partnered with Coalesce. The declaration came at the Robi WiFi launching event that took place today at Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel.
Hon’ble State Minister for Posts and Telecommunications Division, Begum Tarana Halim, MP was present at the launching ceremony as the chief guest. Robi’s Managing Director & CEO, Supun Weerasinghe and Chief Corporate and People Officer (CCPO), Matiul Islam Nowshad along with a number of high officials of the company were also present on the occasion. High officials from the WiFi hotspot partner organizations were present as well.
WiFi technology is very efficient in providing high-speed internet to the indoor users. The data traffic generated from the WiFi hotspots complements the operators’ 3G network enabling them to better manage the data traffic on their own networks. This, in turn, helps in offering better internet experience to the users on the operators’ network.
Terming quality of service as one of the major concern for the government, the Hon’ble State Minister for Posts and Telecommunications Division, Begum Tarana Halim, MP praised Robi’s initiative to take quality internet service to the masses using WiFi technology. As the citizens become more accustomed to digital lifestyle, she thought that this measure will suitably address people’s growing demand for high speed data service.
Speaking on the occasion, Robi’s Chief Corporate and People Officer (CCPO) Matiul Islam Nowshad reiterated the company’s commitment to partner with the government in realizing Digital Bangladesh. He felt that WiFi technology provides the ultimate solution to address the growing demand for high speed internet service at affordable price. He opined that Robi’s initiative to make the technology available for the masses will significantly improve the country’s standing in the global index for digital connectivity.
Robi’s Managing Director and CEO, Supun Weerasinghe said that “Robi is committed to enable Government’s vision of digital Bangladesh and availability of internet is the prime enabler of this vision. In line with this aspiration, Robi Axiata has been consistent in its commitment to building digital bridges as opposed to being deterred by the notion of digital divides. Empowering communities through digitization and bridging of asymmetries through the power of inclusive digital connectivity has enabled us to deliver quantum and sustainable impact to our nation.”
ABOUT ROBI:
Robi Axiata Limited is a joint venture between Axiata Group Berhad, of Malaysia and NTT DoCoMo Inc., of Japan. Robi is the second largest mobile phone operator in Bangladesh in terms of revenue, with 27.6 million subscribers, as of February 2016. Robi network provides nationwide coverage to 99% of the population with 13,444 BTSs and over 3,951 3.5G sites. Robi proudly claims to have the widest international roaming service in the market, connecting about 385 operators across more than 145 countries. It is also the first operator to introduce GPRS and 3.5G services in Bangladesh. The Company has introduced many first of its kind digital services in the country and has invested heavily in taking mobile financial services to the underserved communities in the rural and semi-urban areas.
