Phone, Internet Services Halted In Pakistan During Voting

As the general elections commenced across Pakistan, a notable disruption unfolded with the suspension of both mobile phone and internet services. This decision was prompted by the onset of violence that tragically claimed the lives of 30 individuals.

The suspension of mobile phone services was enacted by authorities as a precautionary measure to address concerns related to public safety and maintain law and order during the electoral process. Pakistan’s interior ministry issued a statement emphasizing that the nationwide suspension of mobile services was a strategic response to the prevailing security threats. The statement underscored the critical need for security measures in the wake of recent attacks that resulted in loss of lives, highlighting the imperative to effectively manage law and order and counter potential threats.

Read more: Internet Suspended In Pakistani City Ahead Of Elections 2024

NetBlocks, an organization monitoring mobile and internet availability, reported significant disruptions in mobile internet services across Pakistan. Live network data indicated a notable impact on the second-largest operator, Zong, aligning with widespread user reports of service outages. This disruption coincided with the opening of polls on election day, exacerbating the challenges faced by citizens attempting to participate in the democratic process.

Cities such as Lahore, Islamabad, Karachi, Peshawar, Quetta, and others experienced the suspension of both internet and mobile services during the polling process. The absence of mobile phone services posed a considerable inconvenience for citizens, hampering their ability to communicate with loved ones and engage in routine activities.

Amid heightened security threats, Pakistan implemented additional measures by closing its border crossings with Afghanistan and Iran. This strategic decision aimed to fortify security protocols during the elections, mitigating potential external disruptions that could compromise the safety and integrity of the electoral process.

The suspension of mobile and internet services during the elections reflects the delicate balance authorities must strike between ensuring public safety and facilitating the democratic exercise of voting. While these measures are implemented with security considerations in mind, they also present challenges for citizens attempting to actively engage in the electoral process. The situation underscores the complex interplay between security imperatives and the democratic principles that underpin the electoral proceedings, underscoring the multifaceted nature of national events.