Internet services have started returning in phases across eight districts of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) following a formal request from the AJK government to the federal Ministry of Interior.
The restoration is being carried out gradually, with DSL and 3G/4G services being restored in selected areas. However, internet access will remain restricted in some locations, where connectivity will initially be available only to educational institutions and banks.
The phased restoration was directed by the AJK Home Department on August 30, with implementation beginning from August 31.
Internet services restored in selected areas
In the Muzaffarabad Division, internet services have started returning to different areas through DSL and 3G/4G connections.
In Muzaffarabad district, however, DSL connectivity will remain limited to educational institutions and banks. Similar restrictions will apply in Bagh city and Dhirkot, where limited DSL services will be restored specifically for educational institutions and bank branches.
Haveli Kahuta is set to receive both DSL and 3G/4G internet services as part of the phased restoration plan.
Meanwhile, residents and institutions in Mirpur and Bhimber will have access to DSL internet services across the entire districts.
Restrictions remain in several areas
The restoration will not cover all areas immediately.
In Kotli, DSL connectivity will be restored for educational institutions and banks, while internet services will remain unavailable in Sensa, Sarsawa, Baloch and Tattapani.
Internet services will also remain unavailable for the time being in Rawalakot and Sudhnoti.
The AJK Home Department has also established conditions for internet access in selected areas of other districts. Connectivity in these locations will depend on the requirements and restrictions specified by the department.
The phased approach means that internet access will gradually return rather than being restored across the entire region at the same time.
Institutions required to submit affidavits
Heads of educational institutions and officials responsible for eligible bank branches have been directed to submit affidavits before receiving restored connectivity.
The undertakings will confirm that the internet connections will not be used in any manner considered contrary to state interests, national security or public order.
The AJK Home Department has also instructed relevant authorities to provide details of DSL and GPON connections. These details will be used for whitelisting and monitoring purposes.
The requirement is intended to ensure that restored internet connections remain limited to approved users and institutions in areas where restrictions continue.
A gradual return of connectivity
The restoration follows a formal request by the AJK government to the federal Ministry of Interior. The decision provides a framework for bringing internet services back to areas where restrictions had remained in place.
The phased system gives authorities the ability to restore connectivity according to local conditions while maintaining restrictions in areas where full internet access has not yet been approved.
For residents of affected districts, the restoration of internet services is expected to improve access to online education, banking and other essential digital services.
However, people living in areas excluded from the current restoration plan will continue to face restrictions until further decisions are taken by the relevant authorities.
The latest directive therefore marks a partial return of internet connectivity across AJK, rather than a complete restoration throughout the region.
