GUWAHATI, July 22: In a significant step to ensure uninterrupted communication during the ongoing floods in Upper Assam, the Centre has activated a special emergency telecom measure in three affected districts.
According to an official update, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has enabled the Intra-Circle Roaming (ICR) facility in Sivasagar, Charaideo and Jorhat districts. The temporary arrangement will remain in force until July 24, 2026, allowing residents to stay connected despite disruptions to telecom infrastructure caused by flooding.
Under the ICR facility, mobile subscribers can access network services from any available telecom operator if their own service provider has no coverage in a particular location. The measure is intended to minimise communication outages in areas where floodwaters have affected mobile network infrastructure.
The Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) has advised residents in the affected districts to make use of the facility for communication and emergency coordination.
Authorities emphasised that uninterrupted communication is critical during disasters to support rescue operations, facilitate relief efforts and ensure the timely dissemination of public safety information.
The ASDMA has also shared emergency helpline numbers for public assistance. Residents can contact the State Control Room on 0361-2237219 or 9401044617. Toll-free emergency numbers 1070, 1079 and 112 are also operational, while assistance is available through the District Control Room on 1077 or 112.
Officials said the activation of the emergency roaming facility is expected to significantly ease communication challenges for thousands of flood-affected residents in the three Upper Assam districts, enabling better coordination between the public, emergency responders and relief agencies.
