The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) on Tuesday announced the activation of the Intra Circle Roaming (ICR) facility in five districts of Tamil Nadu: Cuddalore, Villupuram, Puducherry, Kallakurichi, and Thiruvannamalai. This measure was implemented due to the ongoing impact of Cyclone Fengal.
Cyclone Fengal’s Impact
Cyclone Fengal made landfall between Puducherry and Tamil Nadu on November 30, bringing heavy rainfall and severe weather. Although the cyclone weakened by Sunday, torrential rains persisted, causing widespread flooding and waterlogging in Puducherry and significant disruptions in other parts of Tamil Nadu. The situation prompted emergency measures, including the deployment of rescue teams.
What is Intra Circle Roaming (ICR)?
Intra Circle Roaming allows telecom operators to share their networks, expanding coverage and ensuring users can stay connected, especially during emergencies. It enables people to access any available network, regardless of their telecom provider, facilitating uninterrupted communication with family and emergency services.
Service Availability and Directives
The DoT has instructed all telecom service providers (TSPs) to extend the ICR facility to in-roamers from other states visiting Tamil Nadu. Users can connect to the best available network in the region, even if their primary provider is down.
The facility will remain active until 23:59 hours on December 6, 2024, or until further notice, ensuring seamless communication during recovery efforts.