Andina

Peru: Government approves decree to narrow digital gap, benefit 1.6 million people

ANDINA/Difusión

ANDINA/Difusión

18:00 | Lima, Feb. 3.

The Council of Ministers on Wednesday approved an Urgency Decree that will serve to streamline rural connection and telecommunication services, with the aim of narrowing the digital gap for the benefit of 1.6 million citizens in rural areas, Prime Minister Violeta Bermudez has reported.

This measure was announced within the framework of the health emergency due to COVID-19.

According to the high-ranking official, this measure includes satellite internet and the rural Wi-Fi system for the benefit of 1.6 million citizens —especially in remote areas and various rural communities.

Measures against COVID-19

In this regard, an assessment was made and it was observed that there has been a significant reduction in the mobility of people over recent days, as proven in the use of the public transportation system.

"We have to express our appreciation to the population that is complying with the measures and respecting the capacity limits in the public transportation system. Although we have seen some crowding areas, we believe that this will be lowered in the coming days, thus avoiding physical proximity and continuing to prevent contagion," she underlined.

Bermudez also stressed the importance of women's organizations that work in soup kitchens, since their role is essential.

Therefore, one of the immediate actions is to continue supporting these organizations with the supply of food, in coordination with various local governments, she concluded.

Remarks were made during a press conference held along with Health Minister Pilar Mazzetti at the Government Palace in Lima.

(END) JCR/MVB

Published: 2/3/2021