Balochistan Government announced that 3G and 4G mobile internet services have been suspended in the province, after directions were given to the Federal Ministry of Interior to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). It is being made at 5:00 PM on September 5 through to 9:00 PM on September 6 to cope with any security threat and to keep the population safe.
The official notification informed that all the mobile broadband services will be non-operational during this period. Moreover, NTC and PTCL wireless internet services in most strategic districts such as Quetta, Noshki, Khuzdar, Mastung and Sibi will also remain suspended.
Authorities clarified that the action is precautionary in nature, mainly to avoid any untoward incident during sensitive days. They emphasized that these interim suspensions are a common practice in Balochistan when religious meetings are held and any other high alert event.
Read more: Internet Shutdown in Quetta Again Over Security Fears
The disruption will affect online businesses, freelancers, and citizens who use the internet a lot in their everyday lives. But the administration promised that services would be fully restored after 9:00 PM on September 6, when the security situation has been stabilized.
Authorities also suggested that citizens should prepare in advance, do what they can before the suspension and be patient throughout the suspension. The Balochistan Govt made it clear that this action is merely a temporary one and a continuation of the measures to sustain peace and order in the area.
