Far West China blog reports that after almost a year of being unable to access the world wide web from Xinjiang, Internet access has suddenly been restored:
Residents of Xinjiang woke up from a 10-month nightmare this morning to find that their computers could finally connect to the world wide web. Previously only a select few websites could be accessed from within the province, mostly news related and all of which were Chinese-operated (see time line below for details).Internet has finally been restored in Xinjiang
…It’s not exactly clear what, if any, restrictions still apply but programs such as proxies and VPNs which yesterday were ineffective can now be used. Gmail and chat programs are available.
…Update 5/14: The Xinjiang government has set up a phone and email hotline for internet users to report “harmful” misuse of the web. Article from Tianshannet. Also, the government has issued a letter thanking residents for their understanding and patience while promising them a more “harmonious future”.
