Taliban Imposes Nationwide Telecoms Blackout in Afghanistan: Impact on Internet and Phone Services
Afghanistan is currently experiencing a significant communications blackout as Taliban authorities have started disconnecting fibre-optic connections in various provinces to curb what they consider to be immoral activities. According to Netblocks, a cybersecurity and internet governance watchdog, the country is now facing a nationwide telecoms blackout, with connectivity levels plummeting to just 14% of normal levels. This intentional disconnection of service has led to a severe reduction in internet access, particularly in regions where high-speed internet has been shut down.
The crackdown on internet access by Taliban authorities began earlier this month, resulting in sluggish and intermittent internet connections in many areas. Since telephone services often rely on internet infrastructure, the physical disconnection of fibre-optic internet has also impacted mobile and fixed-line phone services. Netblocks suggests that finding a balance between disconnecting internet access while maintaining phone service may require some trial and error.
In response to the situation, the Taliban leader issued orders to completely ban fibre-optic internet in the northern province of Balkh to prevent immoral activities. Similar restrictions were reported in other northern provinces like Badakhshan and Takhar, as well as in southern provinces such as Kandahar, Helmand, Nangarhar, and Uruzgan. The country had previously invested in a 9,350-km fibre-optic network to improve connectivity and lift the nation out of poverty, but the recent restrictions imposed by the Taliban have hindered these efforts.
Since coming to power in 2021, the Taliban have implemented various restrictions based on their interpretation of Islamic law. The recent actions to sever fibre-optic connections and limit internet access are part of their efforts to enforce their moral code and control communication channels within the country. The impact of these measures on the Afghan population and the country's connectivity with the rest of the world remains a significant concern.