When Sri Lanka was devastated by Cyclone Ditwah last year, HUTCH Sri Lanka’s resilient network kept civilians and critical services better connected while other networks were more severely impacted. A well-planned network, supported by diversified backhaul with fibre and ‘over-the-air’ microwave links, ensured communications remained stable, supporting consumers and rescue operations. Engineers were airlifted by helicopter to restore outages within hours. Users received relief packages including free calls, SMS and data. HUTCH also donated Rs 60 million to the “Rebuild Sri Lanka Fund”, placing affected communities at the heart of its crisis response.  

CK Hutchison is providing funding to support Hutch Sri Lanka’s giveaway of 200 e-bikes to distributors so that they can help to keep people connected despite the ongoing challenges affecting customer mobility. Of the local subscribers, 90% are using prepaid cards. But with fuel shortages afflicting the nation, people can’t get to commercial outlets that are distributors of prepaid cards and top-ups. The e-bikes will enable distributors to sustain the critical distribution network. They can travel the land, leaving connected people in their wake. Roll on, Hutch Sri Lanka, roll on.  

Sri Lanka is suffering a time of economic turbulence, driving runaway food inflation that is leaving many hungry. Hutch Sri Lanka has been supporting a number of community events including the Nallur Festival, the largest Hindu temple festival in the northern region of Jaffna. The temple has a sacred duty to distribute food to the poor and this year, the mission is more vital than ever. Over 10,000 meals were provided during the Hutch Annadanam (a divine giving of food and life) at the Nallur Mylooran Arangam Banquet Hall and Convention Centre in late August.