Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada banned fibre optic internet across Balkh province to “prevent immorality,” officials confirmed Tuesday. Government offices, businesses, schools, and homes lost Wi-Fi, though mobile data remains functional. Authorities promised to build an alternative network to cover essential services within Afghanistan.
Residents Face Work and Connectivity Challenges
One resident reported losing home internet days earlier. His provider initially claimed a technical problem that would resolve soon. He said fast internet is crucial for communicating with clients and companies outside Afghanistan and may move provinces to maintain his work.
First Restriction of Its Kind
Authorities imposed this ban for the first time since the Taliban seized power in August 2021. Officials gave no explanation for why Balkh faces the ban first or whether other provinces will face similar restrictions. Authorities sometimes suspend mobile networks temporarily during religious festivals to prevent remote detonations.
