Tension Eases in AJK as Daily Life Gradually gets back to Normal;

Muzaffarabad: Tension that had persisted for nearly two months in Mirpur and several other districts of Azad Jammu and Kashmir has eased considerably, with routine life gradually returning to normal, residents and local sources said.

Political activities had remained intense in two divisions of AJK during the recent general elections, with various political parties fielding candidates and demonstrating their political strength, resulting in heightened political activity with traditional enthusiasm and devotion in several areas.

With the gradual improvement in the situation, markets in different cities and towns have started regaining their usual bustle, while commercial activities are also gradually picking up. Residents said the improved situation had reduced the uncertainty and anxiety prevailing among the people, although further measures were needed for complete normalisation.

The restoration of banking services has also provided relief to the public. Main branches of banks and ATM services at various locations have resumed operations, reducing difficulties faced by citizens in obtaining cash, conducting business transactions and managing other financial matters.

However, residents said the continued suspension of internet services remained a major concern. Students, teachers, online businesses and people associated with various other sectors are facing serious difficulties because of the prolonged disruption.

The internet shutdown in various parts of Azad Jammu and Kashmir including lake district of Mirpur has particularly affected educational activities, with students facing obstacles in attending online classes, accessing digital lectures and educational material, and dealing with other academic requirements.

Parents and students said a significant portion of education was now dependent on internet connectivity and that a prolonged suspension could cause serious and potentially irreparable academic losses. Students relying on online classes, digital lectures and other educational platforms have been among the worst affected.

People associated with online businesses have also suffered due to the disruption. Residents said many individuals were earning their livelihoods through freelancing, e-commerce, online services and other digital platforms, but the continued suspension of internet services had disrupted their business activities and caused financial losses.

Citizens, students, business representatives and members of civil society have urged the authorities to restore internet services immediately in view of the improvement in the law and order situation.

They said that if the situation had improved significantly, continuing the internet shutdown was only adding to the difficulties faced by the public and hampering the restoration of educational, commercial and economic activities.

Public circles also called upon the government and relevant institutions to ensure the provision of basic facilities and address, on a priority basis, the problems being faced by educational institutions, business centres and people dependent on online employment.

They stressed that the restoration of internet connectivity, along with other essential services, was necessary for the complete revival of normal life, business activities and the education system across Azad Jammu and Kashmir.