'Big data can help companies along with government to fight against COVID-19'

Grameenphone is exploring various innovative ways in which it can help the government and the people of the country during the coronavirus pandemic.

Sigve Brekke, CEO, Telenor Group, said, "The mobility data analytics can help us along with the Government of Bangladesh to tackle the pandemic efficiently. The insights from mobility data analytics can be used to quantify the number of hospitalisation and ICU occupancy and make decisions on intervention measures and targeted needs. In the current situation, mathematical models are valuable tools for preparedness planning and decision making."

"Grameenphone will continue its significant investments despite the economic uncertainty created by COVID-19. Grameenphone is committed to expand its networks and infrastructure to ensure reliable and stable networks, maintain productivity, and protect access to vital services,"he added, a press release said.

Last year, Telenor Group, along with Grameenphone, have conducted mobility data analytics regarding Dengue and Malaria in Bangladesh. The mobility data analytics gives insights on people's movement from one municipality to another and is fully anonymous. From mobility data and virus case data, one can estimate the current and future trajectory of the epidemic.

Amid the global COVID-19 pandemic, the world, including Bangladesh, is experiencing, in many cases, the complete upheaval of daily life. The country is navigating new ways of educating children, running businesses, maintaining critical societal functions, all while trying to ensure the health and welfare of those affected.

Besides, this crisis has led to a sizeable increase in data traffic, higher demands for telecommunication services, and considerable pressure on networks all over the country. The stakes are high and growing.