The Balochistan government has ordered a suspension of internet services across the province during Eid Milad-un-Nabi. According to the notification issued on September 4, mobile data services, including 3G and 4G, will remain unavailable from 6 pm on September 5 until 9 pm on September 6.
The order also covers PTCL and NTC services in specific districts. Internet access will be restricted in Quetta, Noshki, Khuzdar, Mastung, and Sibi until the evening of September 6. The suspension extends to both mobile and fixed-line services in these areas.
Authorities described the measure as a precaution to ensure public safety during religious gatherings. The Home Department requested the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to enforce the decision while exempting essential government and white-listed numbers.
This is not the first time the province has faced restrictions on internet access. Similar suspensions have been implemented in recent months, particularly during major religious or political events, with the government citing security concerns as the primary reason.
Repeated shutdowns have drawn criticism from civil society and digital rights groups, who argue that such measures disrupt education, business activity, and access to information. The Balochistan High Court has previously directed the government to review blanket suspensions and restore services in areas without credible threats.