Ncell’s monsoon-focused RRTs start work

KATHMANDU, JUNE 29: Ncell’s Rapid Response Teams (RRTs), established in each district to resolve possible interruptions of telecommunications services caused by monsoon-related disasters, have started work." As a result, it has been possible to restore impacted mobile towers and continue services quickly despite disruptions caused by storms, heavy rain, and their impacts," reads a press release issued today by the company. 

Through RRTs, Ncell restored over 70% of the 116 impacted towers within four and a half hours in over 15 districts of Koshi, Madhes, and Gandaki Provinces. These sites were down due to adverse weather on June 26. The storm and heavy rain caused road blockages and multiple breaks in optical fibre, while poles of the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) and trees fell, affecting the electricity supply.

As part of disaster preparedness and response, Ncell has implemented several measures to ensure the continuity and quick restoration of its services during the monsoon season, which can be impacted by natural disasters like floods and landslides.

Ncell has also increased its field workforce by 10% compared to regular operations. This additional manpower allows for quicker response times and efficient handling of service disruptions.

Ncell is claimed to be committed to resuming services in affected areas within 4 to 6 hours, provided there are no major transportation obstacles. This rapid restoration is made possible by enhanced preparedness and increased manpower. 

Ncell has kept its Diesel Generator on Wheels (DoW) and Cell on Wheels (CoW) to provide emergency services during crises. Similarly, the company has made necessary preparations, targeting areas with large numbers of customers and places that may be affected by floods. 

"In collaboration with the Department of Water and Meteorology, Ncell will continue disseminating life-saving early warning alerts via SMS to the public, informing them about potential risks of floods and landslides," the release states.