Kathmandu— Mobile network operator Ncell is extending its provision of free voice calls, data access, and SMS messaging in areas of Nepal impacted by recent severe flooding for an additional seven days, beginning Saturday, August 30th. The move aims to support communication, search and rescue operations, and the distribution of relief supplies following floods along the Bhotekoshi River in Rasuwa district. Ncell initially announced three days of free services on Wednesday, but has now extended that period to facilitate ongoing recovery efforts.

Service Restoration and Expansion

Ncell stated that communication is critical during disaster situations for information sharing, coordination, and rescue work. The company reported it had already restored 18 mobile towers disrupted by the floods and continues working to repair the remaining nine affected sites. Upanga Dutta, Chief Consumer Business Officer of Ncell, confirmed these restoration efforts are underway.

Financial Contribution to Relief Fund

In addition to restoring communication infrastructure, Ncell has contributed Rs. 10 million (approximately $75,000 USD) to the Prime Minister Disaster Relief Fund on Thursday. This financial aid is intended to support broader relief and recovery initiatives in the affected regions.

Nepal Telecom Restores Connectivity

Alongside Ncell’s efforts, Nepal Telecom has also resumed services through a tower near the Trishuli 3A Hydropower Project in Rasuwa. The company transported a generator and fuel nearly one hour to the site, with technicians conducting tests before bringing the tower online. Services have also been restored around the Trishuli 3B project site, Betrawati, and parts of Kalikasthan through the Tupche BTS in Rasuwa district.

Both Ncell and Nepal Telecom continue to prioritize restoring full network coverage to support ongoing rescue operations and facilitate communication for those impacted by the recent flooding.

(With inputs from RN)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.