The government of Balochistan, Pakistan, has ordered a temporary halt to mobile data services, including 3G and 4G, across the province until August 31, 2025. This unexpected move aims to curb rising militant activity, particularly around the country’s Independence Day on August 14.
Security Situation Triggers Mobile Data Suspension in Balochistan
On August 6, the Balochistan Home Department issued a directive and requested the suspension of mobile data services in the province due to the peculiar law and order situation. Government spokesman Shahid Rind confirmed that authorities immediately shut down the services to disrupt how militants communicate and plan attacks.
Militant activity has surged recently. For example, a roadside explosion killed soldiers, and attacks on security forces, railways, and civilians have spiked highlighting growing threats in the region . These incidents contributed to the decision to suspend mobile data, as militant groups repeatedly use digital channels to coordinate their actions.
Cutting Mobile Internet to Disrupt Insurgent Communications
The official explanation was that militancy groups rely on mobile networks to share information, target locations, and coordinate attacks By cutting mobile internet access, the government hopes to weaken these communication channels during a sensitive period.
Balochistan is not only strategically important but also a key route for major Chinese investments under the Belt and Road Initiative, including the Gwadar Port. The province’s stability matters for both local and international interests.
How the Mobile Data Cut Is Impacting Daily Life in Balochistan
Stopping mobile data has hit ordinary people hard. Students, freelancers, business owners, and journalists have all been affected. In remote areas, online classes have been disrupted, making it nearly impossible for learners to keep up.
Freelancers and business owners report their livelihoods are hanging by a thread. In towns like Quetta, Panjgur, and Khuzdar, internet shutdowns have halted work, triggered delays in payments, and cut off income streams
Journalists, too, are struggling unable to report live or share timely updates, many in the field feel cut off from the world. Some have described the situation as an information blackout Human rights groups have condemned the shutdown as a blow to freedom of information and civil liberties, stressing its impact on access to education and business
Shutdown Occurs Amid Ongoing Militancy and Civil Unrest
This internet cut is part of a broader crackdown by Pakistani authorities to stabilize Balochistan, which has faced escalating separatist violence for years. Just two months earlier, militants hijacked the Jaffar Express, taking more than 400 hostages leading to a tense rescue mission.
In July 2025, the Balochistan Liberation Front launched Operation Baam, a coordinated insurgent campaign across the region that included attacks on military targets and telecom infrastructure like cell towers.
Around the same time, protests erupted after the hijacking. Activists called for justice and the release of disappeared individuals, only to face serious crackdowns by authorities This tense background helps to explain why the government feels compelled to use drastic measures like internet suspension.
