AJK’s Home Department has proposed a district-wise plan for restoring 3G, 4G and DSL services, with restrictions in several areas.
The Azad Government of the State of Jammu & Kashmir (AJK) has asked the federal government to begin restoring internet services across the region in phases from Monday, Aug. 31, 2026, according to an official letter.
The Home Department, in a letter dated Aug. 30 and addressed to the Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, proposed a district-wise restoration plan covering 3G, 4G and DSL services.
Under the plan, some areas would receive full internet access, while others would be limited to DSL services for educational institutions and banks. Rawalakot and Sudhnoti, however, would remain without internet services.
In Muzaffarabad Division, Upper and Lower Neelum would receive full DSL and 3G/4G services. In Muzaffarabad district, DSL access would be restricted to educational institutions and banks.
In Jehlum Valley, DSL services would be limited to schools, colleges, universities and banks, while Leepa Valley would receive full DSL and 3G/4G connectivity.
Restrictions would also vary across Poonch Division. Rawalakot and Sudhnoti would remain completely without internet services. In Bagh, DSL would be permitted only for educational institutions and banks within the limits of Bagh City and Dhirkot City. Haveli Kahuta would receive full DSL and 3G/4G services.
In Mirpur Division, Kotli would receive DSL services for educational institutions and banks, except in Sensa, Sarsawa, Baloch and Tatapani. Bhimber and Mirpur districts would receive DSL services across their respective areas.
The Home Department has also proposed conditions for whitelisted internet connections. Heads of educational institutions and bank branches would be required to submit affidavits to the relevant secretaries and the State Bank of Pakistan.
According to the proposed conditions, the whitelisted DSL connections would not be used for activities or narratives considered detrimental to public order, state interests or national security.
The Higher Education Department, Elementary and Secondary Education Department, and State Bank of Pakistan have been directed to urgently provide details of GPON and DSL connections for whitelisting.
Internet services in AJK have remained suspended for an extended period, affecting students, businesses, health care services and public communication.
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