Muzaffarabad: Life came to a standstill in Azad Jammu and Kashmir on Monday as a shutter down and wheel jam strike was observed on the call of the Public Action Committee.

Markets, transport, and even communication services were disrupted amid growing public frustration over unmet demands.

Commercial centers, markets, and lorry depots across Muzaffarabad were shuttered, with transport completely absent from the roads. Hotels and shops that normally open early remained closed. Although schools were officially open, classrooms were left empty as most students did not attend.

Internet and mobile phone services remained suspended across Azad Kashmir. In an unprecedented move, landline telephone services were also completely cut off, further isolating residents from the outside world.

The strike was called by the Public Action Committee, which has put forward a 38-point charter of demands.