Balochistan Temporarily Shuts Down Mobile Services for Muharram Security

In Quetta, the Balochistan government has temporarily suspended mobile phone and internet services to enhance security during the Muharram processions. This decision, aimed at ensuring the safety of participants, has led to significant disruptions for residents and local businesses. The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government is also implementing partial service suspensions in certain areas. Residents have expressed frustration over the ongoing internet outages, which have severely impacted communication, education, and business operations. Students and traders alike are calling for immediate restoration of services to alleviate the challenges posed by these restrictions.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 24, 2026, 16:27 IST

Security Measures in Quetta

Representational Image

Quetta, June 24: In a bid to enhance security during the Muharram processions, the Balochistan government has temporarily halted mobile phone and internet services in Quetta, as reported by local media on Wednesday.

The seventh Muharram procession took place under strict security measures in Quetta on Tuesday.

This suspension of mobile and internet services was enacted as a precautionary step to address security concerns and ensure the safety of participants in the religious events. The disruption affected cellular networks and mobile data across most areas, hindering communication for residents and impacting local businesses, according to reports from a local media outlet.

In addition to the mobile service shutdown, heightened security protocols were established in Quetta, with police and Frontier Corps (FC) personnel stationed at all major entry and exit points of the city.

Meanwhile, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has developed a security strategy for the observance of the 9th and 10th Muharram in the province. Mobile phone services will be partially suspended in selected areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Security officials indicated that while some areas will experience a complete suspension of mobile services, others will face partial restrictions in sensitive locations. These measures are intended to maintain public order and prevent any incidents during the religious observances.

Earlier this month, residents in various regions of Lower South Waziristan district expressed their frustrations over the total suspension of mobile internet services for the past two months. They called on the federal government and the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to take swift action to restore services in the affected areas.

A local resident noted that mobile internet access has been disrupted in several parts of Birmal and Wana tehsils, leaving thousands without essential communication and digital services. Areas in Birmal tehsil affected include Landi Doag, Ji Khel Staff, Shin Warsak, Azam Warsak, Kalotai, and Nargasi, while residents of Ghowa Kohwa, Zeri Noor, Dazha Ghundai, and Kari Kot in Wana tehsil are also experiencing prolonged service outages.

Community members emphasized that internet access is crucial in modern life, and the ongoing disruptions have significantly affected their daily routines and communication.

Students have raised concerns regarding the internet suspension, as it hampers their ability to access online learning resources, conduct academic research, communicate with educational institutions, and prepare for exams. Many students reported being unable to participate in online courses and educational programs due to the lack of internet access.

The business sector has also voiced worries about the internet shutdown, which has disrupted their operations. Local traders mentioned facing challenges in their work due to their reliance on internet-based services, including online banking, digital payments, and communication with suppliers and customers.