ISLAMABAD

The causes of persistent internet slowdowns and telecom service disruptions in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) and Gilgit-Baltistan have come to light, with official documents revealing that critical communications infrastructure damaged by floods and heavy rains last year has yet to be fully restored.

According to documents of the Special Communications Organization (SCO), telecom networks damaged during the devastating rains, floods and landslides of July and August 2025 are still operating under temporary arrangements, placing significant pressure on communication systems across the two regions.

Officials said large sections of optical fiber networks, transmission infrastructure and telecom installations suffered extensive damage during the natural disasters, severely disrupting connectivity and communication services in affected areas.

The documents estimate losses to optical fiber and transmission infrastructure at Rs464.4 million. Around 40 kilometres of underground optical fiber cable and 60 kilometres of aerial fiber cable were damaged, while nearly 1,000 poles, associated equipment and 54 kilometres of copper cable were destroyed.

Among the worst-hit communication links were the Bagh-Rera, Hunza-Sost, Kotli-Rawalakot and Uchhar Nala-Dasu Dam fiber routes, which sustained significant damage during the floods and landslides.

The documents further reveal that civil works infrastructure at 25 SCO telecom sites was affected by the disaster, with losses to telecom sites and related infrastructure estimated at Rs200 million.

In addition, 15 solar power systems and associated civil works were destroyed, while damage to 25 earthing points adversely affected network reliability and operational efficiency.

SCO said emergency restoration efforts using available resources helped re-establish communication services on a temporary basis. However, officials warned that these interim measures cannot serve as a permanent solution and remain vulnerable to recurring faults and service interruptions.

Several communication systems in the affected regions continue to operate at reduced capacity, resulting in network congestion, slower internet speeds and periodic service outages for users.

To ensure full restoration and long-term network stability, SCO has requested the immediate release of Rs1.018 billion in additional funding from the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication.

Officials believe the funds are essential for rebuilding damaged infrastructure, strengthening network resilience and restoring reliable communication services in some of Pakistan’s most geographically challenging regions.