The government’s attempts to control communication in unrest-hit Darjeeling hills through an Internet ban, has not brought locals to a standstill as many are crossing into Nepal and Bhutan to access the web.

The bandh for separate Gorkhaland entered its 12th day on Monday, and the internet ban — imposed since June 19 till June 27, Tuesday — is expected to be extended, but locals have found light in the neighbours’ networks, just a few kilometres away.

Though no numbers are available, every day dozens of people, including youths, businessmen, and even the unemployed, are walking or riding over for a few hours. A few also have SIM cards from Nepal and Bhutan for use in bordering areas.