Mobile networks and internet services were reinstated in Afghanistan yesterday, following a 48-hour shutdown by Taliban authorities. The abrupt outage on Monday evening caused confusion throughout the country, disrupting businesses and isolating Afghans from global communication channels. The extensive blackout occurred after the government had taken measures to restrict internet access in certain provinces to curb perceived “immoral” activities.
Reporters from AFP confirmed yesterday that mobile phone signals and wifi connections had been restored in various provinces nationwide. The Taliban administration has not issued any statements regarding the telecommunications suspension. Wednesday night saw a jubilant scene in Kabul as hundreds of residents took to the streets to share news of the internet’s return.
Describing the moment as akin to a festive occasion, 26-year-old delivery driver Sohrab Ahmadi expressed his elation. In response to the resumption of services, Afghans engaged in celebrations by purchasing sweets and balloons, while car horns blared and people chatted excitedly on their phones.