Mobile internet services have been shut down in several major cities across Pakistan since Tuesday following the arrest of former prime minister Imran Khan. The disruption in services has continued for an indefinite period, with no signs of normalcy returning anytime soon.
According to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), the Ministry of Interior ordered the suspension of mobile broadband services to prevent protesters from organizing and spreading misinformation online. The situation remains tense in many parts of the country, with sporadic protests and roadblocks reported in several cities.
Cities Affected by Mobile Internet Shutdown
The suspension of mobile internet services has affected several major cities in Pakistan, including Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, and Karachi. Mobile users in these cities have reported experiencing service disruptions across all leading mobile networks in the country.
Must Read: Former Pakistani PM Imran Khan arrested in Al-Qadir Trust case
The suspension of internet services has impacted businesses, educational institutions, and individuals who rely on the internet for their daily activities. The shutdown has also affected the operations of several e-commerce platforms, which rely on mobile internet services to connect with their customers.
Impact of Mobile Internet Shutdown on Businesses
The suspension of mobile internet services has had a severe impact on businesses across Pakistan. E-commerce platforms and delivery services have been hit the hardest, with many struggling to operate without access to mobile internet services.
Several businesses have been forced to halt their operations, resulting in significant financial losses. The shutdown has also disrupted the supply chain of several industries, with delays reported in the transportation of goods and services.
Impact of Mobile Internet Shutdown on Education
The suspension of mobile internet services has also affected educational institutions across Pakistan. Schools and universities have been forced to suspend online classes, which were introduced as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The suspension of online classes has disrupted the education of millions of students across the country, with many unable to attend classes due to the lack of internet connectivity. The situation has also affected the research activities of universities, with several research projects coming to a halt.
Calls for Restoration of Mobile Internet
The suspension of internet services has been met with widespread criticism, with many calling for the restoration of internet services across the country. Several human rights organizations have also condemned the suspension of mobile internet services, stating that it is a violation of the right to access information and freedom of speech.
Despite the calls for the restoration of internet services, the government has remained firm on its decision to suspend services indefinitely. The government has stated that the suspension is necessary to prevent the spread of misinformation and to maintain law and order in the country.
The suspension of mobile internet in several major cities across Pakistan has had a severe impact on businesses, educational institutions, and individuals who rely on the internet for their daily activities. The situation remains tense, with no signs of normalcy returning anytime soon. The restoration of mobile internet services is essential to ensure that businesses can operate smoothly, students can attend online classes, and individuals can access vital information.
