Qaseem Shah:
Quetta – Internet services will remain suspended in Quetta and several other areas of the province until August 31, according to a senior official of the Balochistan administration. Speaking on condition of anonymity, as he was not authorised to speak to the media, the officer said the decision was taken to “maintain law and order” and prevent any untoward incidents during the month.
He explained that cellular companies have suspended services at the request of the Balochistan government, citing security concerns. Authorities believe militant groups use the internet to communicate, prompting the extended suspension.
However, millions of internet users across Balochistan have been hit hard by the blackout. Many, including local residents like Muhammad Aslam, Sana Baloch, and Ali Raza, expressed frustration over financial losses, saying they had already paid for monthly internet packages but have been unable to use them.
“This is the fourth consecutive day without internet,” said a Quetta resident, adding that service providers should freeze packages during outages or compensate customers. Social media users have also demanded that the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority ensure that consumers are reimbursed for the lost days of service.
The suspension has affected businesses, students, and freelancers alike, further highlighting the dependence on uninterrupted internet connectivity in today’s economy.
