News

India gets 250 roadside information kiosks

September 29, 2003

MUMBAI, India -- The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) will install information kiosks at 250 roadside locations in the city, as well as in all ward offices.

The kiosks will be connected to the Web via high-speed cable modems, with free service for users, according to an article in The Times of India. The units will offer e-mail, movie listings, rail and air ticket bookings, online complaint registration, tourist information, exam results, telephone numbers and addresses of hospitals, police stations, hotels and popular places.

Topical information, such as details of upcoming local festivals, will also be displayed. Each user will be allotted 10 minutes of surfing time.

The BMC has signed a contract with Infobay Ltd., which will install and operate these kiosks, the article said. Eventually, the BMC will operate them. Infobay will use ads to pull in revenue, through posters plastered on the kiosks as well as through sale of onscreen ad space. Infobay will monitor public response to the kiosks and will make changes to the locations or software accordingly.

The kiosks will be installed within three years. Kiosks at ward offices will be installed within the next six months.