Telecom major Airtel has set up a helpline number to help people know the last location of their friends and relatives in case they are affected by cyclone Hudhud, which is approaching the coastal areas of Odisha and Andhra Pradesh.

“Special helplines and back-up capacity call centres have been set up. Customers in Odisha can call 1948 and those in Andhra Pradesh can call 1949 for which customer communication has already been sent,” an Airtel spokesperson said in a response to a query.

The telecom service provider said it has put its team on high alert to monitor the connectivity in areas that may be affected by the cyclone.

“For alternate power supply, we have built requisite fuel back-up, including mobile diesel generators’, at key locations.

All critical spares and fibres at important locations are in place for faster response and minimum downtime,” the spokesperson said.

The company has arranged for VSAT equipment for providing service using satellite in strategic areas for faster connectivity, if needed.

Last month, telecom connectivity had completely failed in the flood-affected area of Kashmir valley. Absence of telecom connectivity hampered rescue work in the State.

“De-watering pumps have been placed at site locations in low-lying areas and efforts are on to set up a plan for emergency BSC rehoming,” the spokesperson said.

The company has also arranged for additional manpower. Staff from infrastructure management partners have been sensitised and are being stationed at all the districts that are likely to be impacted.

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