Afghanistan Restores Internet Access After Days of Nationwide Shutdown
After a tense period of near-total digital isolation, Afghanistan is once again connected to the global internet. The nationwide shutdown, which began Monday evening, impacted everything from businesses and banking to personal communication and access to vital facts.While the Taliban goverment remains silent on the reasons behind the disruption, connectivity has been restored across most provinces, including Kandahar, Khost, Ghazni, and Herat.
The sudden blackout sparked widespread anxiety and disruption.For days,Afghans found themselves cut off from the outside world,unable to contact family abroad or conduct essential transactions.This marks the first time sence the Taliban regained control in 2021 that the country has experienced a complete communications cutoff.
The Impact of the Shutdown
The consequences were far-reaching. Here’s a breakdown of how the shutdown affected daily life in Afghanistan:
* Economic Paralysis: Businesses, airports, and markets were forced to close. Banks and post offices were unable to operate, halting financial activity.
* Communication breakdown: afghans couldn’t connect with loved ones within the country or internationally.
* Educational Disruption: Many parents kept their children home from school due to the uncertainty.
* Desperate Measures: Residents in border regions,like those in Herat and Kandahar,traveled to neighboring Iran and Pakistan seeking mobile signals.
Netblocks,a leading internet monitoring association,confirmed the shutdown was ”consistent with the intentional disconnection of service,” noting connectivity plummeted to just one percent of normal levels.
Why the Silence?
The Taliban government has yet to issue an official statement explaining the shutdown.However,prior to the blackout,a government official warned of an impending cut to the fiber optic network “untill further notice.”
This action follows earlier, localized internet restrictions in northern provinces on September 16th. Attaullah Zaid, a spokesman for Balkh province, stated the initial ban was ordered by the Taliban’s leader to “prevent vice.” He also suggested option connectivity solutions would be implemented, citing concerns about the negative impact of internet applications on Afghanistan’s “economic, cultural and religious foundations.”
A Nation Rejoices at Restoration
The return of internet access was met with widespread celebration. In Kabul, hundreds took to the streets Wednesday night, sharing the news and expressing relief.
“it’s like Eid al-Adha; it’s like preparing to go for prayer,” said 26-year-old delivery driver Sohrab ahmadi, reflecting the joy felt by many. People celebrated with sweets, balloons, and the sound of car horns as they reconnected with the world. “The city is alive again,” remarked Mohammad Tawab Farooqi, a restaurant manager.
What Does This Mean for You?
If you have contacts in Afghanistan, you can now resume normal communication. Though, it’s significant to remember that internet access has been intermittent in recent weeks, and future disruptions are possible.
The United Nations has urged authorities to ensure continued access, emphasizing the importance of connectivity for Afghanistan’s stability and development. This situation highlights the fragility of digital infrastructure in the country and the potential for future disruptions.
Source: FRANCE 24 with AFP
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