Srinagar: In a major step towards easing the 69-day lockdown in the Kashmir Valley, authorities on Saturday announced that some 40-lakh postpaid mobile phones will become operational from Monday noon. The announcement was made by Jammu and Kashmir Principle Secretary and Spokesman Rohit Kansal at a nationally televised press conference here.
However, over 20 lakh prepaid mobile phones, and mobile and other internet services will remain deactivated for now. “Having reviewed the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, a decision has been taken to restore mobile phone facilities in all the remaining areas of Jammu and Kashmir,” Kansal said.
“More specifically, all postpaid mobile phones, irrespective of the telecom service provider, will stand restored and be functional from 12 noon on Monday, 14 October, 2019,” he said while reading out from a statement at the conference.
Kansal said the decision is for all 10 districts of the Kashmir province.
The announcement tops a number of steps taken in the recent weeks to remove restrictions that were imposed after Jammu and Kashmir was stripped of its special status.
Lack of mobile phone connectivity has caused immense hardship to the people and the announcement of its restoration is the most significant step towards ending the communication blockade.
11 injured in Srinagar grenade explosion
At least 11 civilians were injured on Saturday when militants hurled a grenade at a crowded market in summer capital Srinagar.
Police said militants hurled a grenade at the Hari Singh High Street in Srinagar when vendors were selling goods and the market was crowded with shoppers. (Agencies)
