Daily Life paralyzed in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir Towns

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) which controls all telecommunication in the Occupied territory of Jammu & Kashmir is facing widespread criticism for imposing heavy taxes and raising internet package rates, making digital access increasingly unaffordable for the general Kashmiri population. These challenges have disrupted education, commerce, and access to information, compounding the sense of isolation and hardship.

Even Muzaffarabad, the main town of Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoK), is facing severe disruptions in both electricity supply and internet connectivity, which have deeply affected daily routines, businesses, and essential services.

There is low voltage problem 24×7 and this has become a critical issue, with Kashmiris /Baltis reporting frequent damage to electrical appliances, especially as temperatures continue to rise. Despite limited local efforts for rectification, the core problems with the power supply remain unresolved, leaving many households and businesses vulnerable to outages and equipment failures.

The situation is further aggravated by unreliable and expensive internet services. Students, traders, journalists, and members of civil society have expressed mounting frustration over poor connectivity and soaring internet costs.

Civil society groups, particularly the Awami Action Committee, have taken a leading role in voicing public grievances. They are demanding urgent government action to stabilize electricity and improve internet infrastructure, as well as a rollback of excessive taxes that burden residents. The committee has pledged to organize broader public demonstrations and maintain pressure on authorities until lasting solutions are implemented.

The ongoing crises in Muzaffarabad reflect broader systemic issues in PoJK, where economic strain, rising utility costs, and a lack of responsive governance have fuelled widespread discontent and protests in recent months against Pakistani Occupation.