The Balochistan government temporarily suspended mobile phone and internet services in the provincial capital Quetta on Tuesday, 24 June as a precautionary security measure ahead of Muharram processions, according to local media reports. The shutdown affected cellular networks and mobile data across the majority of areas in the city, disrupting both residents and local businesses.

Security Measures in Quetta

The seventh Muharram procession was taken out in Quetta under tight security on Tuesday. Authorities suspended mobile and internet connectivity to counter security alerts and protect participants in the religious gatherings. In addition to the communications blackout, police and Frontier Corps (FC) personnel were deployed at all major entry and exit points of the city, according to reports.

The suspension left thousands of residents unable to connect with family and colleagues, while local traders reported significant disruption to daily commerce, including online banking, digital payments, and coordination with suppliers and customers.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Security Plan

Meanwhile, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government finalised a security plan for the observance of the 9th and 10th of Muharram in the province. Mobile phone services are set to remain suspended partially in selected areas, with complete restrictions in certain sensitive locations and partial curbs enforced elsewhere. Authorities stated the measures are aimed at maintaining law and order and preventing any untoward incident during the religious observances.

Prolonged Blackout in Waziristan

The Muharram-linked shutdowns come against the backdrop of a longer-running connectivity crisis in Lower South Waziristan district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Residents of several areas in the district reported that mobile internet services had been completely suspended for over two months, according to reports. Affected localities include Landi Doag, Ji Khel Staff, Shin Warsak, Azam Warsak, Kalotai, and Nargasi in Birmal tehsil, as well as Ghowa Kohwa, Zeri Noor, Dazha Ghundai, and Kari Kot in Wana tehsil.

Residents urged the federal government, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), and other relevant institutions to immediately restore services in the impacted regions.

Impact on Students and Businesses

Students in the affected areas have raised concerns over their inability to access online learning materials, attend virtual classes, conduct academic research, and prepare for examinations. The business community has similarly flagged losses stemming from their dependence on internet-based services. Local residents described internet access as an essential necessity, with the prolonged disruption severely affecting daily life and communication.

As Pakistan's security establishment continues to rely on connectivity shutdowns during sensitive religious events, pressure is mounting from civil society and affected communities for a more targeted approach that does not leave entire districts offline for extended periods.