In a significant move towards digital equity, the Medellín Metro has introduced free Wi-Fi service across all stations on Lines A and B, as well as the San Antonio del Tranvía de Ayacucho station. This initiative, made possible by a joint investment of over 2.7 billion pesos by the Metropolitan Area and the Medellín Metro, is set to benefit millions of commuters annually.
The free internet connection not only facilitates communication and emergency management for users but also provides access to educational and recreational opportunities. Commuters can now engage in everyday activities such as browsing social media, reading news, listening to music, or accessing the Civic App, contributing to the city’s digital inclusion efforts.
The Wi-Fi service offers two 300 megabyte internet channels, ensuring a high-quality connection with the potential for expansion based on demand. Since its initial implementation in nine stations in 2022, the service has witnessed an average of 300,000 daily connections, with peak usage times between 5:00-7:30 AM, 4:00-7:00 PM, and 8:00-9:30 PM.
The project required a total investment of approximately 2.7 billion pesos, with the Aburrá Valley Metropolitan Area contributing 1,076 million pesos and the Medellín Metro providing 1,620 million pesos in kind, covering infrastructure, personnel, energy, and advertising.
This initiative is particularly beneficial for the majority of Medellín Metro users, who belong to strata 1, 2, and 3, as it enhances their access to the internet during their daily commutes. The provision of free Wi-Fi in the city’s transportation system is a significant step towards bridging the digital divide and promoting equal opportunities for all citizens.
