ISLAMABAD – Pakistan is facing a deepening crisis, with tensions already high along the Afghanistan border and conditions in the province of Balochistan reportedly reaching the brink of civil war. Amid reports of killings of civilians and kidnappings of Baloch leaders by the Pakistani military, mobile internet services have been abruptly shut down across much of the province.
The suspension, effective from Wednesday until November 16, follows a security alert issued by the Provincial Home Department. Mobile internet services have been completely suspended throughout Balochistan, with the exception of the provincial capital, Quetta.
Security Measures and Travel Restrictions
In addition to the internet blackout, transportation services on the Loralai section of the National Highway N-70 have been suspended until November 14. Authorities attribute these measures to the pervasive security concerns and volatile current circumstances within the province.
Further security steps include the closure of all schools in Quetta’s Cantonment area from Wednesday until November 16. While officials initially stated that Quetta district would be exempt from the internet suspension, many users in the capital reported service disruptions starting Wednesday.
The Home Department has directed all district administrations, police, and relevant authorities to strictly enforce the decision and make alternative arrangements for public convenience.
Rising Tensions and Train Service Suspension
The escalation of security concerns follows recent disruptions to critical infrastructure. Earlier, Pakistan Railways temporarily suspended the services of the Jaffar Express, which runs between Quetta and Peshawar, for four days (November 9-12). Railway officials confirmed the decision was a precautionary measure taken on the advice of security and intelligence agencies due to heightened security risks in Balochistan.
The combination of the internet shutdown, school closures, and transport halts has intensified fears among observers that the deteriorating situation in Balochistan may be pushing the region closer to a prolonged period of violent internal conflict.
