The Nadapalu gram panchayath in Udupi district of Karnataka state has decided to provide free Wi-Fi to the students attending online classes. The village surrounded by forests bordering Agumbe has always faced problems for internet connectivity. Panchayath development officer has told the media that this issue was affecting the online classes that were being held due to the pandemic situation persisting in the nation.
Panchayath president suggested that they find a solution to the issue as online classes will be continuing for next few months as well. Since the panchayath building is connected to Wi-Fi, it has been decided to provide the connection to students as well. Seating with adequate social distance has also been arranged.
This panchayath has a population of about 2,500 with nearly 750 houses spread over a vast area. There is a Telecom tower in the Agumbe range and two more are located in short distances from the panchayath office.
The Panchayath development officer said that more than ten places in the panchayath limits didi not have access to the internet. He said that the Panchayth president is also looking if a similar facility can be set up in other places. The turnout of students reaching the panchayth building is low although many of them have shown interest to take up the classes. It is saddening that some students have to travel 17 KM to reach the office.
The District Deputy Commissioner visited the office on Tuesday and interacted with the students. He shared that this model could be implemented in panchayats where the internet connectivity is poor or sometimes not present at all.
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