Internet services were restored in Muzaffarabad on Wednesday night, 53 days after broadband connectivity was suspended on June 6. Broadband internet services came back online at around 10 PM and were reported to be functioning normally, though mobile data services continued to face connectivity problems.
The prolonged disruption had affected communication, digital banking, businesses, and journalists covering developments in Azad Jammu and Kashmir throughout the 53 day period. Extended connectivity outages of this length place significant strain on daily commerce and communication in areas where residents rely heavily on internet access for routine transactions and information.
With broadband services now restored, attention will likely turn to when mobile data connectivity in the region returns to normal as well, given that mobile networks often serve as the primary source of internet access for many users. The restoration marks a return to more reliable digital connectivity for residents, businesses, and institutions in Muzaffarabad following the extended suspension.
Connectivity disruptions of this scale continue to draw attention to the broader challenges facing digital infrastructure resilience in parts of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, an issue that has recurred periodically in the region. As with previous restorations following extended outages, residents and businesses in Muzaffarabad will be watching closely to see whether the current service levels hold steady in the days ahead.
Follow the SPIN IDG WhatsApp Channel for updates across the Smart Pakistan Insights Network covering all of Pakistan’s technology ecosystem.
