The Shetlands are the UK’s most northerly region
(Picture: PA Archive)The Shetland Islands could be without communication lines for days after a subsea cable was damaged.
The link between the northernmost British islands and the mainland was severed on Wednesday, rendering phones and internet unusable.
The police declared a major incident and officers have been patrolling to reasasure residents.
Alistair Carmichael, MP for Orkney and Shetlands, said he has contacted the UK government but warned it could take days to restore the communication line.
He tweeted: “Thanks to police, coastguard and other emergency services for stepping up quickly and effectively to minimise the impact and give clear information to those affected.
“[I] will be in Shetland from this evening and hope to meet with local partners and emergency services.”
The event comes after another cable connecting Shetland and the northerly Faroe Islands being damaged last week.
Sumburgh Airport is reportedly operating as normal while Serco NorthLink Ferries is expected to operate as normal.
A BT statement added: “Engineers are working to divert services via other routes as soon as possible and we'll provide further updates. Our external subsea provider is also looking to restore their link quickly.”
Police also advised people to not make any non-urgent calls and to check on elderly or vulnerable residents more often.
Chief inspector Jane Mackenzie added: "We expect it will be fishing vessels that damaged the cable but it is very rare that we have two problems at the same time.”
