Quetta connectivity shutdown disrupts daily life

QUETTA:

A sudden suspension of mobile phone and internet services in Quetta has disrupted everyday life in the Balochistan capital, affecting students, healthcare workers, businesses, journalists and thousands of residents who rely on digital connectivity for essential communication.

The service disruption left many people unable to contact family members, colleagues and customers, while businesses dependent on online communication and digital transactions also faced difficulties.

For students, the shutdown came as a major setback. Those attending online classes, downloading educational material or communicating with teachers and fellow students were suddenly cut off from their usual channels of learning.

Healthcare workers were also affected. Doctors and other medical staff use mobile phones and internet services to coordinate with colleagues, communicate with patients and share important information. The interruption made routine communication more difficult, particularly for people dealing with urgent medical needs.

Small businesses and traders faced similar problems. Many depend on mobile calls, messaging applications, online payments and delivery services to operate. Food-delivery workers were among those affected, as they struggled to receive orders and communicate with customers.

Journalists working in the city also reported difficulties in contacting sources and transmitting news from the field, at a time when fast communication is essential for reporting developing events.