Pakistan has severed mobile internet services across Balochistan, targeting militant communications but plunging millions into a digital blackout.

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) confirmed the indefinite suspension, effective since August 6, 2025, in districts including Kohlu, Chaman, Qila Abdullah, Pishin, Loralai, Ziarat, Qila Saifullah, Nushki, and Harnai.

Shahid Rind, the provincial government’s spokesperson, defended the move, stating that mobile data enables terrorist organizations to coordinate attacks, particularly after recent deadly incidents.

The shutdown will persist through August 31, intensifying security measures ahead of Pakistan’s Independence Day on August 14.

The decision follows a surge in terrorist activities, including a suicide bombing in Kech that killed three paramilitary personnel and the March 2025 hijacking of the Jaffar Express train, which left 31 dead.

Authorities argue the blackout disrupts groups like the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), recently designated a Foreign Terrorist Organization by the U.S.

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However, the sweeping suspension has crippled daily life for Balochistan’s 15 million residents, 8.5 million of whom rely solely on mobile data for internet access.