Curfew lifted in Skardu; markets to reopen

SKARDU -- The curfew imposed in Skardu has been lifted, mobile internet services have been restored, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flights have resumed operations, and markets in the city including those in the Kusho Bagh red zone will be allowed to reopen.

District Magistrate Skardu Hamza Murad announced the relaxations on March 11, 2026, following an improvement in the law and order situation.

A press release from the Gilgit-Baltistan government earlier confirmed the lifting of the curfew that had been in place since March 1, along with the restoration of internet and flight services to ease public hardship.

However, Section 144 remains imposed across Skardu district, prohibiting all processions, gatherings, rallies, public meetings, and the display or carrying of weapons.

Security forces will continue checking at checkpoints until the situation fully normalises.

The notification to reopen educational institutions will be issued separately by the Education Department.

The district administration appealed to the public to strictly comply with the law, cooperate with law enforcement, and avoid any activity that could lead to unrest. It warned that violations will face strict legal action and restrictions could be reimposed if necessary.

The measures come after several days of tightened security in Skardu amid recent tensions that had disrupted normal life in the district.