Kathmandu- Ncell has introduced satellite-powered connectivity in areas severely affected by the Bhotekoshi floods, aiming to keep rescue teams and affected communities connected where conventional communication networks have been disrupted.
Using a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite-powered connectivity solution from Eutelsat, Ncell is deploying satellite-connected devices at critical locations in coordination with government agencies involved in rescue, relief and rehabilitation efforts.
The service will provide free internet connectivity at flood-affected communities, relief and holding centres, temporary camps, emergency response locations and other areas where terrestrial networks are unavailable or severely damaged. The solution has already been installed at three key locations in Nuwakot and is being deployed in other flood-affected areas.
The satellite system delivers an internet signal directly to a ground-based satellite device, which then provides Wi-Fi connectivity in the surrounding area. This allows people to access messaging, internet-based calls, critical information and other online services even when regular mobile and internet networks are unavailable.
According to Ncell, the service offers high-speed and low-latency connectivity, supporting communication and coordination among rescue teams, relief agencies and affected communities.
Ncell has obtained the necessary approvals from government agencies, including the Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA), to operate the service.
Ncell Chief Corporate and Regulatory Affairs Officer Dilli Ram Shrestha said the company had enabled immediate access to satellite communication at three locations in Nuwakot where conventional communication services had been severely affected.
Since the first day of the disaster, Ncell has also been providing free voice, data and SMS services to more than 300,000 affected customers every day in flood-hit areas.
The company has further contributed Rs. 10 million through the Ncell Foundation to the Prime Minister’s Disaster Relief Fund to support rescue, relief and rehabilitation efforts.
Ncell said the satellite connectivity initiative reflects its commitment to keeping communities connected during emergencies, particularly in areas where roads have been cut off, fibre networks damaged and conventional communication infrastructure rendered inoperable.
The company said connectivity during a disaster is not merely a convenience but a critical lifeline for affected communities waiting for information and assistance.
