Internet Blackout in Afghanistan Disrupts Lives of Families and Students

Staff Reporter | PNN

On Tuesday, Afghanistan experienced a massive internet blackout after the ruling Taliban announced the suspension of internet services across the country, citing the prevention of “immoral activities.” For the nation’s 43 million people, this has effectively created a total communication blackout.

Internet monitoring organization Netblocks reported that multiple networks in Afghanistan were disconnected Monday night, and telephone services were also affected. Afghan citizens are unable to communicate with family members abroad.

No official statement has yet been released by the Taliban government. However, Haji Zayed, governor of northern Balkh province, said that “alternative arrangements for essential services” will be put in place within the country. This directive came from Mawlawi Hibatullah Akhundzada, the Taliban’s supreme leader.

The blackout is creating a critical situation in Afghanistan, particularly during a humanitarian crisis. Students relying on online classes, especially school-going girls, are increasingly affected due to restricted educational access.

The organization Women for Afghan Women (WAW) stated that the blackout “has silenced millions of Afghans and cut off their lifeline to the outside world.”

Mariam Soleimankhil, a member of the exiled Afghan government, said, “The silence online is deafening. Our people are isolated, and the world is in darkness without them.”

Currently, apart from Starlink, there is no technological alternative for Afghans to restore communication and break this blackout.

Source: CNN