Kathmandu, August 28 : Ncell has extended its free voice, data and SMS services in flood-affected areas by 7 days, effective from tomorrow (Saturday), to facilitate communication, search and rescue, and relief distribution efforts. With this extension, these services will now be available free of charge in the affected areas for additional one week.

Earlier on Wednesday, Ncell had announced free data, on-net voice calls and 100 free SMS for three days for people in areas affected by the severe flooding in the Bhotekoshi River in Rasuwa. The company has been providing these services as announced, and the initial three-day period is ending today.

Communication services play a vital role during disasters by facilitating information sharing, coordination, and search, rescue and relief efforts. Ncell has extended the free service period to make it easier for people in the affected communities to stay connected with their families, loved ones, and teams involved in rescue and relief operations.

“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.

18 mobile towers restored
Ncell has been supporting to maintain continuity of communication services during disasters and contributing to emergency search, rescue and relief operations. The company has restored 18 mobile towers that were disrupted due to the floods in the affected areas and is continuing efforts to restore remaining 9 affected sites.

Similarly, Ncell through its Ncell Foundation contributed Rs. 10 million to the Prime Minister Disaster Relief Fund on Thursday to support search, rescue, relief and rehabilitation efforts. In addition, Ncell has been sharing necessary information through SMS and its social media pages and accounts, urging people in flood-affected areas to remain safe and follow safety instructions issued by the relevant authorities.