Bandipora, J & K : Students in Block Baktoor, a remote border area near the Line of Control (LoC) in Gurez Valley of Bandipora district, are facing serious difficulties due to the lack of 5G internet connectivity in the area.

With online education becoming an increasingly important part of students’ academic lives, poor internet connectivity has created major challenges for those trying to attend online classes, access study materials, download educational resources and complete assignments. Local students and residents said unreliable internet services are affecting education and making it difficult for students to keep pace with their academic requirements.

Speaking to the media, local student Mosin Zaheer said that more than 20 days have passed since Reliance Jio reportedly assured residents that 5G services would soon be introduced in Block Baktoor. However, he said, no significant work related to the installation or rollout of the 5G network is visible on the ground so far.

“Students are facing difficulties in attending online classes and accessing important study material because of poor internet connectivity. The assurance of 5G services had raised hopes among residents, but there has been little visible progress,” Mosin said.

He added that the issue is not limited to students, as residents across the area also depend on reliable internet connectivity for communication, online services, education and other essential activities.

A local resident, Mohd Sultan, said the lack of proper internet connectivity has become a major concern for people living in the remote border area. He said students are particularly affected as they often have to depend on mobile internet for educational purposes, but weak and unreliable connectivity makes it difficult to access online classes and learning platforms.

Mohd Sultan further said that better internet connectivity is essential not only for education but also for residents who need to access government services, communicate with family members, make online payments and carry out other day-to-day activities. He urged the concerned authorities and telecom service providers to treat the matter as a priority.

Students and local residents have appealed to the District Administration Bandipora and Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, Indu Kanwal Chib, to take up the matter with the concerned authorities and the telecom service provider and ensure that 5G services are made available in Block Baktoor at the earliest.

Residents said improved internet connectivity would provide much-needed relief to students living in this remote border area and help them continue their online education without disruptions.

The students and residents expressed hope that the administration and concerned telecom authorities will address the issue at the earliest and ensure that the people of Block Baktoor are not left behind in the digital age.

Report By – Aadil Abdullah