Exorbitant Starlink internet fees reported in Pauktaw

By Admin 12 Apr 2026

DMG Newsroom

12 April 2026, Pauktaw

Exorbitant fees are reportedly being charged for Starlink internet access and social media account creation in Pauktaw Township, Arakan State, an area currently controlled by the Arakan Army.

To ensure local residents have access to economic and social communication, the United League of Arakan has officially permitted the use of public internet services and MEC phone lines.

However, residents in Pauktaw Township report that the costs for internet usage and setting up accounts for social media platforms such as Facebook, Telegram, Viber, Gmail and Signal remain excessively high.

A local man in Pauktaw said, "In a village in Pauktaw Township, internet access only became available this month. In other townships, the internet usage fee is usually between K2,000 and K3,000 per hour. But here, they are charging K10,000 per hour for usage and up to K15,000 to open a Facebook account."

He added, "Since most people have not used the internet for a long time, social media accounts on almost every phone have been locked or deactivated. This has led to huge crowds. Charging such high prices creates serious difficulties for those who cannot afford it. To use the connection just once, a person needs at least K25,000 to K30,000."

Since the start of the latest fighting in Arakan State, residents have been cut off from internet and phone line access.

While the official rate for Starlink internet usage in areas controlled by the Arakan Army is set at K2,000 per hour, significantly higher fees are being charged in Pauktaw Township. As a result, locals are calling on the relevant authorities to take effective action.

A local woman said, "The problem is not only the internet fee but also that they are charging up to K15,000 to open Facebook, Viber or Telegram accounts. Some people travel from far away to use the service and are facing serious hardships. I want the authorities to open more Starlink access points for the public."

Currently, the United League of Arakan has officially authorised Starlink internet access to support communication for the Arakanese people and has instructed that service fees must not exceed K2,000 per hour.

Despite this, there is widespread criticism that residents are facing difficulties as fees far above the set rate continue to be charged in some areas.