Afghanistan has emerged from a complete digital blackout that paralysed the nation for three agonising days, with mobile internet services being gradually restored across major cities including Kabul, Kandahar, and Herat.
The restoration comes after an unprecedented nationwide shutdown that began on Monday, cutting off millions of citizens from essential services, communication with loved ones, and vital information sources.
Communication Crisis Grips Nation
The blackout represented one of the most severe internet restrictions imposed since the Taliban regained control in 2021. Mobile network operators, including the state-owned Afghan Wireless, were compelled to comply with the directive, leaving businesses stranded and families unable to connect.
"The silence was terrifying," shared Kabul resident Mariam Basir, speaking to The Guardian. "We were completely cut off from the world, unable to check on relatives or conduct basic business."
International Condemnation and Local Impact
The shutdown drew immediate criticism from human rights organisations and foreign governments. The United Nations expressed "profound concern" about the impact on humanitarian operations and freedom of expression.
Within Afghanistan, the consequences were immediate and severe:
- Business transactions ground to a halt as digital payments became impossible
- Students lost access to online educational resources
- Healthcare services relying on telemedicine were disrupted
- Journalists struggled to report on developing situations
Pattern of Digital Control
This latest incident continues a troubling pattern of internet restrictions under Taliban rule. Previous administrations have increasingly limited digital access, particularly targeting social media platforms and implementing nightly shutdowns.
While the Taliban government has offered no official explanation for the three-day blackout, analysts suggest it may be linked to security operations or attempts to control information flow during sensitive periods.
As services slowly return to normal, many Afghans remain wary of future disruptions to their digital connectivity, which has become an essential lifeline in a country facing numerous humanitarian challenges.
