ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has proposed an allocation of Rs298.875 million for the expansion of cellular services in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) during the financial year 2026-27, as part of efforts to improve digital connectivity in remote and mountainous areas.
According to official documents, the project titled “Expansion of Cellular Services in AJK and GB Phase-IV” was launched in 2024 and is scheduled for completion in 2027. The total estimated cost of the initiative stands at Rs1.997 billion.
The project has so far achieved 90 per cent physical progress and 85 per cent financial progress. An amount of Rs1.698 billion has already been spent, while the remaining Rs298.875 million has been proposed as the expected throw-forward allocation for FY2026-27.
Under the initiative, the government plans to establish 28 essential cellular sites across AJK and GB, along with the required civil infrastructure. The project aims to expand 4G coverage, improve mobile broadband services and enhance communication facilities in areas where difficult terrain has traditionally limited reliable telecom access.
The progress report shows that civil works on 23 sites have been completed, while electricity supply has also been extended to all completed locations. Furthermore, 4G cellular equipment has been installed and commissioned at 23 sites, enabling improved mobile connectivity for residents in targeted areas.
Work on the excavation and installation of 50 kilometres of optical fibre cable is also underway. The fibre network is expected to strengthen backhaul connectivity, improve service reliability and support the expansion of telecom infrastructure in the region.
The initiative is expected to benefit local communities, students, businesses, tourists, emergency response services and government institutions by providing better access to digital communication facilities.
Improved cellular coverage in AJK and GB will also support key sectors such as online education, telemedicine, e-commerce, tourism development and disaster management, particularly in remote areas where connectivity remains a major challenge.
The project is part of the government’s broader strategy to reduce the digital divide by extending modern communication infrastructure to underserved regions.
Upon completion, it is expected to provide more dependable cellular and broadband services to communities across AJK and Gilgit-Baltistan.
