Balochistan Suspends Mobile Data in Quetta for 24 Hours

The Balochistan government has ordered a 24-hour mobile data suspension in Quetta today amid rising security concerns.

A letter dated October 30, sent to the Ministry of Interior, requested that 3G and 4G services be suspended in Quetta from 12am. Authorities cited the “peculiar law and order situation and threat perceptions” as the reason for the shutdown.

“Owing to the peculiar law and order situation and threat perceptions, the services of 3G and 4G services are required to be jammed in district Quetta,” according to the letter.

Security in Balochistan has worsened in recent months, with militants increasing attacks in the province. The move follows a similar mobile data suspension in August, which was later lifted by the Balochistan High Court after 16 days.

Pakistan suffers significant financial losses from internet outages, with last year’s disruptions costing the country $1.62 billion, the highest in the world. Authorities say the mobile internet suspension is a precaution to ensure public safety.