The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) are working together to restore essential communication services disrupted by Cyclone Arnab. The focus is on addressing power supply disruptions and restoring optical fibre connectivity.
After the impact of Cyclone Arnab along the coast of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and TSPs have initiated restoration efforts to ensure the continuity of essential communication services in the affected areas. The widespread heavy rainfall, flash floods, tree falls, and power infrastructure disruptions have affected telecom services across parts of Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and adjoining regions.
Significant progress has been achieved in restoring network connectivity across these states. In Andhra Pradesh, overall telecom network availability has reached 99.18 percent. Among the affected districts, network availability stands at 98.5 per cent in West Godavari and 91.96 per cent in Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Konaseema. Commercial power supply disruptions and localised Optical Fibre Cable (OFC) cuts are the primary factors affecting network operations.
In Odisha, following Cyclone ARNAB, the telecom network situation in Ganjam, Gajapati, and Kandhamal districts has been gradually improving with the easing of rainfall and receding of floodwaters. TSPs have initiated restoration work at affected sites, resulting in progressive improvement in network connectivity and a reduction in service disruptions.
To facilitate uninterrupted communication for citizens during this time, Intra-Circle Roaming (ICR) remains operational across affected districts to allow subscribers to access mobile services regardless of their service provider. Additionally, 11 Cell on Wheels (COWs) have been deployed to strengthen emergency communication services.
Source:
Press Information Bureau
