In a heartfelt move aimed at reconnecting thousands cut off by floods and landslides, the Central Government has directed all telecom operators to immediately activate the intra-circle roaming (ICR) facility across Jammu and Kashmir. This critical directive, valid until September 2, is a response to the widespread communication breakdown caused by relentless rainfall and severe landslides that have battered the region for days.
Telecom networks across providers — Airtel, Jio, BSNL, and Vodafone-Idea — have faced serious disruptions, leaving entire communities without access to phones or internet. The Department of Telecommunications, recognizing the urgency of the situation, has invoked Clause 29.6 of the unified licence and relevant disaster protocols under SOP 2020, urging service providers to make ICR functional without delay.
“In view of the prevailing conditions… all telecom service providers are hereby instructed to activate the intra-circle roaming facility for the J-K Union Territory with immediate effect,” read the official communication issued by the Disaster Management Unit.
This means subscribers in J-K, regardless of their mobile operator, can now connect through any available network in the region. This step is not just technical—it’s a lifeline for those trying to reach loved ones, coordinate rescue efforts, or call for help in life-threatening situations.
The massive rains have reportedly damaged optical fibre cables at multiple points, leading to network blackouts across districts. With emergency services struggling to function under these conditions, the blackout has only added to the public’s fear and frustration.
In response, telecom operators have assured the public that technical teams are on the ground, working tirelessly to restore full services. Meanwhile, intra-circle roaming acts as a temporary bridge to keep people connected when they need it the most.
This is a time for empathy, coordination, and urgency—and ensuring no one feels isolated or unheard in the face of nature’s fury.
