KATHMANDU: Ncell has extended its free voice, data and SMS services in areas affected by the Bhotekoshi River flood in Rasuwa for another seven days, from September 5 to September 11, to support communication, rescue and relief efforts.
The telecommunications company had initially announced free services for three days on August 26, the day of the flood. The initiative was later extended for seven days until September 4.
“Ensuring uninterrupted communication during this difficult time is important,” said Upanga Dutta, Chief Consumer Business Officer of Ncell. He said the extension would help affected communities remain connected with their families and support teams involved in rescue and relief operations.
According to Ncell, 92 percent of the sites affected by the Bhotekoshi flood have now been restored. Of the 27 Ncell sites affected by the disaster, 25 have been restored, including the site in Trishuli, Nuwakot, which was restored on Thursday.
One site at Ghatte Khola, Timure, Rasuwa, was completely destroyed by the flood. Ncell said it is coordinating helicopter transportation of necessary equipment to restore another affected site at Tiru, Uttargaya, Rasuwa.
Ncell has also been supporting disaster-response efforts by disseminating information from relevant authorities through SMS, call tones and its social media platforms.
Through the Ncell Foundation, the company also contributed Rs. 10 million to the Prime Minister Disaster Relief Fund on August 27 to support search, rescue, relief and rehabilitation efforts following the flood.
The extended free services are expected to help residents in affected areas maintain essential communication while recovery and restoration efforts continue.
