Quetta, Dec 7 (NationPress) Pakistani officials have once again halted mobile phone internet services in Quetta and other regions of Balochistan, creating significant challenges for individuals reliant on the internet for work, education, and communication, as reported by local media.

According to reports, the disruption of mobile internet services commenced in Quetta on Tuesday. Government representatives indicated that the suspension of internet services in Balochistan was implemented due to "security concerns," as noted by The Balochistan Post. They did not specify the duration for which these restrictions would remain in place.

This is not the first instance of mobile internet service suspension in Balochistan.

In November, authorities had interrupted mobile phone internet services for three days across various districts of the province, including Quetta and Chaman, citing security concerns. This interruption affected communication, business operations, and daily life for residents in Balochistan.

Officials stated that the suspension in Quetta was part of "precautionary measures". Sources from the Balochistan Home Department revealed that mobile internet services were disrupted in several districts for three days, as reported by Pakistan's Samaa TV. Local residents expressed that they were experiencing severe challenges due to the internet shutdown.

Previously, in October, the Balochistan government had suspended mobile data services in Quetta for 24 hours due to a "peculiar law and order situation". In a correspondence dated October 30, the Balochistan government urged the federal Ministry of Interior to direct relevant authorities to halt 3G/4G internet services in Quetta on October 31 for 24 hours, as reported by Dawn. The correspondence stated: "Owing to the peculiar law and order situation and threat perceptions, the services of 3G and 4G are required to be jammed in the district of Quetta."

Similarly, in August, Pakistani authorities had suspended mobile data services in Balochistan, citing "security reasons". This led to widespread disruptions in education, online businesses, and media reporting within the region. Officials explained that the decision was based on the recommendations of security agencies, considering the rising tensions, especially surrounding Pakistan's Independence Day celebrations.

At that time, students, entrepreneurs, journalists, and human rights organizations condemned the government's choice. Students engaged in online classes reported difficulties attending lectures or submitting assignments, with the situation being more dire in rural areas, where educational resources are already limited. Freelancers and business owners in Quetta, Turbat, Khuzdar, and Panjgur noted that their livelihoods were severely impacted due to the suspension of internet services.