Authorities have suspended mobile, internet, and telephone services across Azad Kashmir as the region prepares for a major strike on September 29.
As per the media reports, telecom operators confirmed that voice, data, and broadband services remain suspended across districts including Muzaffarabad.
Relatives outside the region expressed distress on social media, saying they could not reach their families, while residents described feeling isolated and abandoned.
Users complained that VPN services failed to bypass restrictions, with signals dropping to zero in several areas, eliminating even the possibility of limited access.
The shutdown has disrupted businesses, freelancers, and students, who depend on digital platforms, while shops relying on QR payments reverted entirely to cash transactions.
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News reporters said they were unable to file field stories, while ATM lines grew as locals rushed to withdraw cash amid service collapse.
Officials defended the blackout as necessary to prevent coordination of mass protests, but critics argue it unfairly punishes ordinary citizens instead of agitators.
Talks between the AJK government and Joint Awami Action Committee collapsed earlier this week, prompting deployment of ranger troops and strict communication restrictions.
The blackout adds to Pakistan ongoing nationwide internet disruptions, which have drawn criticism for undermining activity and curbing freedom of information in sensitive times.