Normal life resumes as curfew lifted in Jammu

Jammu, February 21

Authorities on Thursday lifted day curfew in Jammu, facilitating resumption of normal activities in the city that saw massive protests following the Pulwama terror attack.

Markets reopened and public transport was back on the roads. Schools also reopened after week-long closure due to curfew and restrictions.

Jammu District Magistrate Ramesh Kumar issued two orders announcing relaxation of curfew in all areas of Jammu district from 7 am to 6 pm for 11 hours.

The district magistrate initially ordered relaxation in the curfew in the entire city from 7 am to 2 pm and later extended the relaxation period till 6 pm, as per the order.

However, prohibitory orders remained in force to maintain law and order, officials said.

Policemen were seen making rounds of the city early on Thursday morning to announce relaxation of the curfew and asked people to resume their normal activities.

2G mobile Internet services in the district have been restored. However, all colleges and universities in the district are closed.

“All examinations have been cancelled in Jammu University. There will be no teaching,” JU PRO Vinay Thusoo said.

However, officials said examination of Classes 8 and 9 would be held as per schedule on Thursday in all districts of Jammu province.

In case of restrictions in any area, the admit cards of students and identity cards of teachers would be treated as curfew passes, the officials said.

Shops and business establishments reopened across the city, while public transport also resumed in most of the routes as people came out of their homes to buy essential commodities.

People in some areas complained of shortage of vegetables, milk and ration and demanded that ATMs be made operational immediately as they are running out of cash. They also complained about non-availability of public transport on some routes. All wine shops and bars remained closed. PTI