Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada ordered a complete ban on fibre optic internet across Balkh province to “prevent immorality,” officials confirmed on Tuesday. This marks the first permanent shutdown of its kind since the Taliban took control in August 2021. The ban affects government offices, schools, businesses, public institutions, and private homes. Residents can no longer access Wi-Fi, although mobile data remains functional, albeit slow and expensive. Authorities have stated they plan to build an alternative network to cover essential services, but provided no timeline or further details.
Residents Face Daily Disruption
Local residents reported sudden loss of connectivity several days ago. One individual contacted his internet provider, who initially blamed a technical issue. The resident, who spoke anonymously for fear of reprisals, said the shutdown disrupts work, especially communications with clients and companies abroad. He warned that the lack of fast, reliable internet could force him to relocate from Mazar-e-Sharif, the provincial capital, to maintain his livelihood. Mobile data remains operational, but residents say it cannot replace stable fibre connections. Many families, businesses, and public institutions now rely solely on this limited service.
Uncertainty and Security Context
Authorities have not explained why Balkh was chosen for the ban or whether the policy will expand to other provinces. Officials emphasized that the shutdown intends to prevent immorality but gave no examples or measurements. Afghanistan has previously suspended mobile networks temporarily during religious festivals to prevent remote detonations of explosives. This fibre ban, however, is a longer-term restriction affecting both daily life and economic activity. Observers warn that the continued shutdown could hinder education, business operations, and government services, while leaving citizens with limited recourse to maintain critical communications.
