Google to bring Loon, power 100 wi-fi stations

Technology giant Google yesterday said it hopes to soon start tests for its Project Loon in India, which aims to bring affordable internet access, even as the Centre is of the view that the project would affect mobile transmission

New Delhi: Technology giant Google yesterday said it hopes to soon start tests for its Project Loon in India, which aims to bring affordable internet access, even as the Centre is of the view that the project would affect mobile transmission.  

Google CEO Sundar Pichai interacts with the students in New Delhi yesterday. Pic/PTI

Google CEO Sundar Pichai said the company will work with carriers and is hopeful that Project Loon can work as a ‘backbone’ to offer internet connectivity in areas without coverage.

“Project Loon will launch balloons in the sky to help reach out to rural areas,” he added.

Welcoming Google’s proposal to partner with BSNL for the pilot project, Union Telecom Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said, “...In-principle, we are agreeable to the pilot project. Certain issues of security and harmony with the Department of Civil Aviation need to be sorted out. We will finalise that also.”

Besides, the technology giant will also empower 100 railway stations in India with wi-fi connectivity by December next year.
The first station that will go live next month will be Mumbai Central.

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!