Ncell has begun providing satellite-based internet connectivity in areas affected by the devastating Bhotekoshi floods, aiming to keep communities, rescue teams and relief agencies connected where conventional telecommunications infrastructure has been damaged.

The initiative uses Eutelsat Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite technology to provide internet access even where mobile networks and regular internet services are unavailable. The service is being deployed in coordination with government agencies involved in search, rescue, relief and recovery operations.

Satellite internet deployed in Nuwakot

Ncell has so far established satellite-based connectivity at three critical locations in Nuwakot, with work underway to extend the service to additional flood-affected areas.

The system uses a ground-connected device to receive internet signals from satellites and then distributes connectivity through Wi-Fi to people and teams in the surrounding area.

This allows users to exchange messages, make internet-based calls, access important information and coordinate emergency operations even when traditional communication networks are down.

Communication remains critical during disaster response

The Bhotekoshi floods severely damaged roads, bridges, fibre links and mobile infrastructure across Rasuwa, Nuwakot and other affected districts.

Recent disaster-response data showed that Ncell had 76 of 78 mobile sites operational, while satellite internet terminals were also being deployed through district administrations. The Nepal Telecommunications Authority had additionally deployed satellite phones and Low Earth Orbit internet terminals to maintain emergency communications.

The reliance on satellite connectivity highlights the importance of communication systems that can continue operating when physical infrastructure is destroyed.

Free connectivity for affected communities

According to Ncell, satellite-based internet will be provided free of charge at selected flood-affected communities, holding centres, relief distribution points, temporary camps and emergency work sites.

The company says the service is intended not only for rescue agencies but also to help affected residents remain in contact with their families and access essential information.

Ncell Chief Corporate and Regulatory Officer Dilli Ram Shrestha said satellite communication had been established at three severely affected locations in Nuwakot where both road infrastructure and conventional communication services had been disrupted.

Ncell continues free mobile services

The satellite initiative comes alongside Ncell's existing emergency support.

The company has extended free voice, data and SMS services in flood-affected areas to help residents communicate with families and assist search-and-rescue and relief teams. Ncell has also restored 18 flood-disrupted mobile towers while continuing work on the remaining affected sites.

Ncell Foundation has also contributed Rs 10 million to the Prime Minister Disaster Relief Fund for search, rescue, relief and rehabilitation efforts.

Satellite technology offers a backup when networks fail

The disaster has exposed the vulnerability of Nepal's telecommunications infrastructure to major floods and landslides.

More than 60 kilometres of Ncell fibre links were damaged during the Bhotekoshi floods, while 27 mobile towers were affected across Nuwakot, Rasuwa and Dhading. Most of the affected cellular sites have since been restored, but some locations remain difficult to reach.

The Nepal Telecommunications Authority has also been working with satellite-based communication providers to ensure emergency connectivity remains available in areas where conventional networks cannot be restored quickly.

Connectivity becomes a lifeline

For communities cut off by damaged roads, destroyed bridges and disrupted telecommunications infrastructure, access to communication can be as important as other emergency supplies.

Satellite internet can provide a temporary communication bridge while mobile towers, fibre networks and electricity systems are repaired.

As Nepal continues its search, rescue and recovery operations following the Bhotekoshi disaster, Ncell's satellite deployment represents another effort to ensure that communication remains available when conventional networks fail.

HamroBichar will continue to follow developments in emergency communications, disaster recovery and technology supporting communities affected by the Bhotekoshi floods.

Tags: Ncell, Satellite Internet, Bhotekoshi Flood, Nepal, Eutelsat, LEO Satellite, Nuwakot, Emergency Communication, Disaster Response, Telecommunications, Rescue and Relief