AJK Begins Phased Restoration of Internet Services
News Desk
Muzaffarabad: Internet services have started returning to parts of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) as authorities implement a phased restoration plan, with educational institutions and banks being prioritised in areas where broader public access remains restricted.
According to the AJK Home Department, internet connectivity has been restored in Neelum Valley, Leepa Valley and Haveli district. Mobile 3G and 4G services, along with DSL connectivity, are also being restored in Haveli.
Limited internet access has resumed in Muzaffarabad, Bagh and Dhirkot. In Muzaffarabad, however, DSL connectivity is currently available only to educational institutions and banks as the authorities continue expanding services.
The Home Department said DSL and 3G/4G services are being restored gradually, with access differing from one area to another. In some locations, connectivity remains limited to institutions considered essential.
DSL and landline services have also been restored in Mirpur and Bhimber districts.
Despite the progress, several areas remain disconnected. Internet services are still unavailable in Sahansa, Sarsawa, Baloch and Tatta Pani, while Rawalakot and Sidhanoti have yet to see restoration.
Restoration follows government commitment
The phased reopening comes two days after newly elected AJK Prime Minister Iftikhar Gilani announced that internal and external routes as well as internet services would be restored within two days.
Gilani had said internet connectivity would be brought back in phases, with educational institutions receiving priority during the initial stage.
The latest restoration marks the beginning of that process, although access remains uneven and residents in several districts are still waiting for full connectivity.
The internet disruption had affected a range of everyday activities, including online education, banking and other digital services, increasing pressure for the restoration of communication networks.
The AJK prime minister has identified the Kashmir independence movement and good governance among the key priorities of his government.
Authorities are expected to continue the phased restoration in the coming days, gradually extending services from essential institutions to the wider population in areas that remain disconnected.
