CHUNGTHANG NEEDS

The list below is in addition to the requirement listed posted yesterday.
Tseten Lepcha, based in Chungthang at present, informs that the town is in urgent requirement of the following:
1. WLL Phones [handsets]: The only telecom service still operational in Chungthang is the BSNL WLL network. Although some residents have WLL phones and more were provided by the BSNL authorities, these are all the old model, bulky phone sets. WLL connections are also available in mobile handset models. These are essentially required for the relief teams working out of town but within the WLL coverage. These teams, which have to negotiate difficult landslides and guide people leaving town on foot [no heliservices again due to inclement weather] find the old model phones too bulky and cumbersome. They could use the more convenient mobile handset variants. WLL connectivity is expected to be restored for Lachung soon and installed at Lachen as well, it is informed. These are large villages and have several outlying settlements for whom mobile handset models will be more convenient.
2. READY-TO-EAT NOODLES: While provisions have been coming in, the best and most convenient option for the relief camps are ready-to-eat instant noodles.
3. GENERATORS: Power & Energy Department engineers now stationed in Chungthang have deployed some ingenious wiring and lighting options and have ensured that all the streetlights in Chungthang are function through the night. These are being powered by generators in station. Similar options will also be devised for Lachung, Lachen and other areas further north and at other locations in Chungthang as well. Gensets are however in short supply and lighter and smaller Gensets will be of great use for the many [seven on last count] relief camps set up in Chungthang.
4. SATTELITE PHONES: While a batch of Sat-Phones have been sent for Chungthang, Lachung and Lachen, the reliable communication they provide has people in the affected area hoping that more sets can be released to the area.
5. VSAT: Lachung has a VSAT installation at a private hotel but has no power supply at present. These, if sponsored by larger aid agencies or collectively by groups, will be of immense help.


The above list, it may be added here, is to complement the list posted here, not to replace it. The need for Tarpaulins, candles and protective gear against rains remains as urgent.