Over 50,000 landlines become operational in Kashmir

Srinagar : The process to ease out restriction imposed in the valley has begun in the phased manner. On Saturday, government restored communication channels by allowing 2G speed internet and making over 50,000 landlines operational. Officials said the high-speed (3G and 4G) mobile internet services will be restored after a fresh assessment of the situation.

The Jammu and Kashmir police said the prohibitory orders, banning large gatherings, have been relaxed in parts of the valley for the time being. Heavy security, however, continue to be in place.

Seventeen out of a little over 100 telephone exchanges in Kashmir have been made operational. Landline services have been restored in Budgam, Sonamarg and Manigam areas of central Kashmir. In north Kashmir, the services have been restored in Gurez, Tangmarg, Uri Keran Karnah and Tangdhar areas. In Srinagar, landlines are back in the Civil Lines area, Cantonment area and near the airport. Officials said 20 more phone exchanges will be operationalised soon.

The government offices and schools will be opened from Monday, authorities announced earlier.

The valley had been under complete lockdown since August 4, one day before the government announced scrapping of Article 370 of the Indian Constitution that gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir.