KATHMANDU: The government is preparing to send generators and solar-powered portable mobile towers to flood-affected areas to restore communication services disrupted by Wednesday’s devastating Bhotekoshi floods in Rasuwa.
The floods damaged electricity infrastructure in Rasuwa and Nuwakot, disrupting mobile services in several areas. The communication blackout has hampered search and rescue operations and left authorities unable to obtain timely information about people in the affected areas.
Families have also been unable to contact their relatives, increasing anxiety over the situation of those living in the flood-hit areas. The government is therefore working to restore communication services through alternative power and mobile connectivity systems. Communication equipment is being prepared for transportation to the affected areas by helicopter.
Initial reports indicate that seven Nepal Telecom towers—two in Rasuwa and five in Nuwakot—were damaged by the floods. Ncell’s fibre network has also been damaged, disrupting services in affected areas.
Technicians from Nepal Telecom and Ncell are working to reach the affected areas and restore connectivity. However, the lack of electricity in several locations has made it difficult to resume regular communication services.
Prime Minister Balen Shah said generators and portable mobile towers would be sent to the affected areas along with essential relief supplies.
“Soon, temporary arrangements will be made for mobile networks and mobile charging in the disaster-affected areas, which will help restore communication,” Shah said in a post on Facebook.
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