Muzaffarabad: Broadband internet services were restored across Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) at midnight on Sunday after remaining suspended for 99 days, apart from a brief restoration lasting more than 40 hours.
DSL connectivity has also resumed, although 3G and 4G mobile internet services are expected to remain unavailable for several more days.
The restoration has brought relief to students, businesses, journalists, professionals and households that have faced prolonged difficulties accessing online services. Residents welcomed the decision, describing it as a major relief, particularly for students and business owners.
However, people who depend on mobile data and lack access to fixed-line DSL connections will remain without internet until 3G and 4G services are restored.
The development follows directions issued on Wednesday by AJK High Court Judge Justice Shahid Bahar, ordering the restoration of internet services within 10 days.
The directions were issued during the preliminary hearing of two separate petitions filed by the AJK Bar Association and a local citizen seeking restoration of internet connectivity. The court combined the petitions and directed the government to restore services within the stipulated period, except in areas where law and order conditions prevented their resumption.
Internet services in AJK were initially suspended on June 5 following a long march and sit-in announced by the proscribed Joint Awami Action Committee in Rawalakot.
After approximately 48 days of disruption, services were partially restored. However, connectivity in Muzaffarabad was suspended again on July 25 following a strike and clashes.
On August 31, acting on the directives of AJK Prime Minister Iftikhar Gilani, authorities issued a notification partially restoring internet services in several districts. DSL services subsequently resumed in areas including Mirpur, Neelum and Haveli, while full connectivity remained unavailable in Muzaffarabad.
Gilani also announced the restoration of internet services during his first media interaction at the Muzaffarabad Press Club on August 31.
The prolonged disruption severely affected education, businesses, government operations and other digital services. Students struggled to access online educational resources, while businesses dependent on digital payments suffered financial losses. Freelancers, government employees and other professionals also faced difficulties carrying out routine work.
Residents and business groups have continued to demand the complete restoration of normal internet connectivity, including 3G and 4G mobile services, throughout the region.