Ncell extends free voice, data, SMS in flood-hit areas by seven days, effective Saturday
KATHMANDU: Telecommunications operator Ncell has extended free voice, data and SMS services in flood-hit areas by a further seven days, effective from Saturday.
The extension is intended to facilitate communication, search and rescue operations and relief distribution as the initial three-day measures end today. The offer follows severe flooding along the Bhotekoshi River in Rasuwa, where the company originally provided free data, all-net voice calls and 100 free SMS to affected residents.
Alongside the service extension, Ncell confirmed it has restored 18 mobile towers disrupted by flooding in the region, while technical teams continue work to bring the remaining nine affected sites back online.
Ncell said the extended access helps affected residents stay in touch with relatives and aids rescue teams on the ground.
"Through this contribution, we believe people in the affected communities will be able to stay connected with their families and loved ones during this difficult time, while also making it easier for teams involved in rescue and relief efforts to coordinate as needed. In such difficult circumstances, it is everyone’s responsibility to extend whatever support they can," said Upanga Dutta, Chief Consumer Business Officer of Ncell.
The move follows a contribution of Rs 10 million made on Thursday by the company, through the Ncell Foundation, to the Prime Minister Disaster Relief Fund to assist search, rescue, relief and rehabilitation work. Ncell is also broadcasting safety notices via SMS and its social media platforms, urging residents in flood-affected locations to remain safe and follow safety instructions from relevant authorities.
