Jammu and Kashmir to Enhance Mobile Connectivity with New Towers in 12 Areas

Srinagar, October 6 (Daily Kiran) : The Jammu and Kashmir government has taken a significant step to improve mobile connectivity in under-served areas by approving the installation of new mobile towers. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced this initiative on social media, highlighting the need for better network coverage in regions such as Uri, Tangmarg, Karnah, Kalakot, Karalpora, Basantgarh, Khoud, Latti Maroti, Banihal, Pogal Paristan, Ramsu, and Kila Darhal.

This project will be funded through the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) and aims to enhance high-speed telecom coverage across Jammu and Kashmir. Abdullah emphasized that this initiative will strengthen connectivity in remote and border villages, facilitate access to online education and e-governance services, improve emergency communication, and bridge the digital divide.

As part of this decision, the government has approved land for new BSNL mobile towers in 12 to 13 underserved and border areas to ensure enhanced high-speed coverage. While major cities and highways in Jammu and Kashmir enjoy good mobile connectivity, infrastructure development is still ongoing in remote and border areas.

As of early 2026, mobile network coverage extends to 6,226 of the 6,474 villages in Jammu and Kashmir, with 248 villages lacking connectivity. Currently, 6,208 villages have access to 4G, 3,704 villages enjoy 5G service—primarily in urban centers like Srinagar—530 villages have 3G, and 6,030 villages still rely on 2G service.

In the region, postpaid connections from Jio, Airtel, and BSNL function effectively across the Union Territory. However, prepaid SIM cards issued outside Jammu and Kashmir typically do not work due to security regulations. Visitors can acquire local prepaid or tourist SIMs by completing KYC with identification documents like an Aadhaar card or passport at major transit points such as airports or railway stations.

Jio and Airtel provide the fastest 4G speeds along with selective 5G services in popular tourist destinations like Srinagar, Jammu, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam. Meanwhile, BSNL’s network is the most extensive in remote valleys, high-altitude areas, and border regions, making it a reliable backup option for users.