Jasper wildfire: Rail, phone, power services affected by fire emergency

Critical infrastructure such as telecommunications has been affected by the wildfires that have raged through Jasper National Park and into the picturesque townsite itself.

Critical infrastructure has been affected by the wildfires that have raged through Jasper National Park, Alta., and into the picturesque townsite itself.

Telus Corp. confirmed Thursday that some of its infrastructure in the Jasper area was damaged Wednesday in the blaze.

Telus spokeswoman Brandi Merker said some home phone and mobility services in the area are down, and technicians are working to restore service.

Priority is being given to restoring the ability to make voice calls, including those to 911, emergency services and hospital communication, she said in an email.

Merker said the company is securing helicopters to refuel critical cell tower sites and has also brought in backup generators to ensure the company can maintain wireless coverage for first responders.

“We know this is a difficult time and we are doing all we can to support our customers and team members who have been impacted, including supplying resources to the evacuation centre in Hinton, Alberta,” Merker said.

Telus said Thursday it is committing $100,000 to support rebuilding efforts in Jasper.

Canadian National Railway Co., whose main line runs through Jasper, suspended operations in the area Wednesday afternoon as conditions worsened.