Mobile internet services in Balochistan have once again been suspended. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), on the request of the provincial government, issued a notification to shut down mobile internet services across the province from August 30 to September 6.
According to sources in the Home Department, the move was taken due to security concerns. The suspension has caused serious difficulties for citizens, particularly students and those engaged in online businesses.
Earlier, on August 6, internet services in Balochistan had also been suspended. On August 21, the Balochistan High Court ordered restoration of internet in Quetta within two hours. Following the court’s directives, internet services were partially restored in Quetta, Pishin and Chaman, but in many areas the service remained either very slow or completely suspended.
Chairman of the Consumer Society, Khair Muhammad, had also filed a constitutional petition against repeated shutdowns, on which the High Court held a hearing. Citizens say these frequent suspensions have badly affected daily life and economic activities.
Meanwhile, in Jacobabad, Pakistan Railways halted the Jaffer Express, which was traveling from Peshawar to Quetta, citing security threats. According to officials, the train was not allowed to proceed beyond Jacobabad Railway Station, and alternative government transport is being arranged to take passengers to Balochistan.
Sources said the Jaffer Express had departed from Peshawar and was en route to Quetta when sudden orders were issued to stop it at Jacobabad.
Authorities have not yet disclosed the nature of the security threat, but stated that the situation is being closely monitored and train service will resume once clearance is given.
