On Sunday night, mobile phone and internet services in Quetta were suspended for two days due to security concerns. According to media reports, services are expected to resume on Tuesday, January 7, at midnight. While security measures are vital in times of uncertainty, the frequency of internet disruptions in Pakistan has raised serious concerns about their economic, social, and political impact.
The Ongoing Strike and Unrest
Adding to the unrest, the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI) has called for a province-wide shutter-down strike in Balochistan. Maulana Abdul Wasay, a leader of JUI Balochistan, emphasized that protests will persist until their demands are met. Strikes and political demonstrations are a common feature of democratic societies, but the repeated use of communication blackouts as a tool to manage dissent poses significant challenges.
Economic Consequences of Internet Shutdowns
Pakistan has been among the hardest-hit countries globally in terms of financial losses from internet shutdowns. A recent report by Top10VPN.com reveals a staggering loss of $1.62 billion in 2024 alone, making Pakistan the most affected country worldwide. The report tracked 18 deliberate disruptions last year, totaling 9,735 hours and impacting nearly 83 million users.
The financial cost of these disruptions is driven by reduced productivity, hampered communication, and stalled online commerce. The most expensive disruption was the suspension of the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), ongoing since February 18, which alone cost $1.34 billion. Another significant shutdown occurred in Balochistan from July 16 to August 21 during protests in Gwadar, costing $11.8 million over 864 hours.
Beyond Financial Losses
The consequences of internet shutdowns extend far beyond monetary losses. Frequent and prolonged blackouts stifle freedom of expression, restrict access to vital information, and isolate communities. Businesses relying on digital platforms suffer setbacks, students lose valuable educational resources, and healthcare systems face disruptions in communication that can hinder emergency responses.
Moreover, these shutdowns damage the country’s global reputation. In an increasingly interconnected world, consistent disruptions erode trust among international investors and tech companies considering Pakistan as a potential market.
Balancing Security and Connectivity
While security is a legitimate concern, it is essential to weigh the cost of connectivity losses against the perceived benefits of shutdowns. Alternative measures for managing security threats and public unrest—such as targeted communication restrictions or enhanced law enforcement—should be explored to minimize disruption to daily life and economic activity.
Call for Policy Reform
To avoid further economic strain and preserve digital rights, Pakistan needs clear and transparent policies that regulate the use of internet shutdowns. Engaging civil society, technology experts, and policy-makers in dialogue can lead to more balanced approaches that prioritize both security and connectivity.
Conclusion
The suspension of internet services in Quetta is a reminder of the broader challenges associated with communication blackouts in Pakistan. As the digital economy becomes increasingly vital, the country must address the long-term implications of these disruptions. Investing in sustainable security measures while safeguarding internet access will be critical for Pakistan’s socio-economic growth and global standing.
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