Telecom Services Restored to 94% in Flood-Ravaged Tripura

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) collaborates with major telecom service providers to restore over 94% of the telecom network in flood-affected Tripura. Essential communication channels have been reestablished, aiding rescue and relief operations. Various measures have been implemented to support the impacted communities.

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has made significant strides in restoring telecom services in flood-hit Tripura. Despite ongoing challenges, the combined efforts of telecom service providers, including BSNL, Reliance Jio, Airtel, and Vodafone, have successfully reinstated over 94 per cent of the network in affected areas, according to the Ministry of Communication.

This feat has been paramount in maintaining essential communication links for rescue teams, government officials, and residents. Tripura encountered severe service interruptions following torrential rains from August 19 to August 23, which led to intense flooding and extensive damage to telecom infrastructure.

In efforts to support affected communities and enhance connectivity, DoT and TSPs have implemented various robust measures. Continuous monitoring by DoT, in coordination with its North East Licence Service Area (NE-LSA) unit and TSPs, ensured effective response. The DoT LSA unit in Tripura, collaborating closely with the State Administration, State Disaster Management unit, and TSPs, swiftly reinstated services. From August 22 to August 27, intra-circle roaming (ICR) was enforced, enabling users to access any available TSP's network.

Responding to state disaster management requests, TSPs promptly replaced damaged equipment and provided essential services. Measures included Jio's extension of prepaid plans' validity by four days for affected customers, Airtel's offering of 1.5 GB of data and unlimited calling for four days, and a 30-day extension of bill payment dates for all post-paid customers.

(With inputs from agencies.)