New Delhi, Aug 2: The telecom infrastructure in landslide-hit Wayanad, Kerala, has been augmented and restored to ensure continuous communication for rescue teams, government officials, and the public.
The Ministry of Communications announced that control rooms, relief distribution centres, and emergency response teams have been activated to support the residents of Wayanad.
Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) is providing 4G services in the Chooralmala and Mundakkai areas of Wayanad. To maintain tower functionality even during power outages, diesel engines have been supplied. The district administration has been given high-speed internet connections, and toll-free numbers have been provided to the Health Department, Government of Kerala.
Airtel is offering 1GB of free mobile data per day, unlimited calling, and 100 SMS per day for three days to prepaid customers whose validity has expired and who are unable to recharge. Additionally, Airtel has extended bill payment deadlines for postpaid customers by 30 days to ensure uninterrupted mobile service.
Vodafone Idea (Vi) has announced 1GB of free mobile data per day for seven days for prepaid customers. This extra data will be automatically credited to users’ accounts, allowing them to stay in touch with loved ones and access information without interruption. For postpaid customers, Vodafone Idea has extended bill payment due dates by 10 days.
The natural disaster in Wayanad has resulted in at least 297 deaths, with 200 people still missing, and numerous habitations destroyed.
Currently, 91 relief camps have been established, providing shelter for 9,328 people who have been safely evacuated.
