(PR.co.nz) Telecom has offered any help and resources it can provide to assist the Pike River Mine explosion rescue effort.
Telecom is temporarily increasing existing mobile coverage in the mine region. Following consultation with the Pike River team, this is being installed in the valley leading to the mine and is expected to be operational by midday Sunday 21 November.
Telecom is also monitoring local mobile and broadband services to best manage capacity while there is significantly increased demand for telecommunications services due to the influx of people in the area.
Gen-i continues to provide close support to Pike River to ensure the company has the telecommunications and IT systems it requires for the rescue activity.
Telecom/Gen-i have also offered support to government and emergency services organisations.
We will extend every assistance we can to the affected families and volunteers, including free local, national and mobile calls during this difficult time.
We are committed to doing everything we possibly can to help, and our thoughts continue to be with the Pike River team and families, as well as everyone involved in the rescue effort.
Media Release 20 November 2010 from Telecom NZ.