Situation Overview
Broadcast infrastructure of key stations in Kathmandu (KTM) is intact. Most stations are running on generators so fuel shortages are anticipated to become an issue. The majority of local newspapers continue to publish online.
Initial assessments by ACORAB (Community Radio Association of Nepal) indicate that around 108 community radio stations in 30 districts have been affected. Most are off air but have advised they could resume broadcasting if minor spare parts or simple devices like mixers and cables were replaced.
Mobile networks in KTM remain functional, although network outage and overloads remain common. Power throughout the city is limited, many households and offices are relying on generators. Mobile Network Providers report that 99 of 460 sites are down in KTM but are slowly being restored.
Less is known about connectivity in rural areas (Mobile Operator NCELL has lost 400 sites outside KTM)
Telecommunications companies are offering free credit and SMS to users in Nepal. ATNT, Sprint, TMobile, Viber, and Vodaphone are offering free overseas calls and texts. Skype are offering free calls in and out of Nepal. Using texts rather than calls is being suggested to avoid congestion.
Facebook is proving to be a key channel for information sharing, with requests of help from affected communities in rural areas coming through on facebook pages, as well as local groups organising fundraising efforts and relief missions to remote areas where needs have been identified.
The UN Flash Appeal was launched on 29 April and highlighted the importance of community engagement and making sure communities are informed and able to inform relief efforts. The fifth strategic objective outlined is to establish an inter-agency common service two way communication service, and proposals to achieve this are currently being developed.