After days of non-stop effort, telecommunications are restored in the eight worst-hit counties in Sichuan Province. Several measures have been adopted to get telecommunications operating again in Wenchuan, Beichuan, Qingchuan, Mianzhu, Lixian, Maoxian, Pingwu, Heishui counties.

In the hardest-hit Beichuan County, over 30 public phones on satellite vehicles have been opened. For quake victims, it is their sole link to the outside world. The earthquake paralyzed telecommunication in 109 counties. Restoration has been completed in 47 counties. Telecom workers continue to repair damaged facilities.

(CCTV May 21, 2008)