Internet services were partially restored across parts of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) on Thursday after a 48-day suspension that began following restrictions imposed in the wake of the banned Joint Awami Action Committee’s (JAAC) long march and sit-in call in Rawalakot on June 5, according to official reports.
The prolonged blackout severely disrupted communication, online banking, business activity, and public services throughout the region. Thousands of consumers lost internet access, while businesses dependent on digital payments suffered financial losses. Students, freelancers, government offices, and professionals faced heavy difficulties carrying out routine work during the shutdown.
Partial Restoration in Mirpur Division
On Thursday evening, connectivity returned to Mirpur city, Afzalpur, Chakswari, Mangla Hamlet, Islamgarh, Kotli, and Bhimber. Despite the partial resumption, users continued reporting intermittent disruptions and slow internet speeds. Officials stated that restoration would continue in phases, with services expected to resume in the Muzaffarabad Division during the next stage before the upcoming general elections.
The 48-day outage sparked widespread frustration among residents. Many locals noted that the shutdown heavily delayed financial transactions, hampered communication, and disrupted daily official duties. The disruption highlighted the region’s heavy reliance on digital connectivity while exposing vulnerabilities in AJK’s communication infrastructure.
Did You Know? The internet shutdown in Azad Jammu and Kashmir lasted for 48 days before partial services were restored in Mirpur city, Afzalpur, Chakswari, Mangla Hamlet, Islamgarh, Kotli, and Bhimber on a Thursday evening.
Political Demands and Public Reaction
Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) AJK President Chaudhry Muhammad Yasin wrote to AJK Chief Election Commissioner Justice Retired Ghulam Mustafa Mughal, urging officials to restore internet access across the entire region. PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari also raised the issue during election public meetings, calling for an immediate restoration to assist businesses, students, and the general public.
Following the partial restoration, Bilawal thanked concerned authorities and Mughal while urging the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to enhance internet speeds across AJK. Meanwhile, residents and members of the freelance community welcomed the return of connectivity but asked the PTA and service providers to waive internet charges for June and July. They argued that consumers should not pay bills for services that remained unavailable during the lengthy suspension.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were internet services suspended in AJK?
Services were suspended for 48 days following restrictions imposed after the banned Joint Awami Action Committee’s (JAAC) long march and sit-in call in Rawalakot on June 5.
Which areas received restored internet connectivity first?
Internet services were restored in Mirpur city, Afzalpur, Chakswari, Mangla Hamlet, Islamgarh, Kotli, and Bhimber.
What are the next steps for internet restoration?
Officials stated that restoration will continue in phases, with services expected to resume in the Muzaffarabad Division during the next stage before the general elections.
How will service providers and authorities handle billing for the 48 days when the internet was completely unavailable to consumers?