Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has partially restored mobile internet services across the country, with the exception of certain sensitive areas. However, popular social media platforms such as Twitter and YouTube remain inaccessible to Pakistani users. In this article, we provide an update on the current status of mobile internet services and the ongoing ban on social media platforms.
PTA Restores Mobile Internet Services, Social Media Platforms Remain Blocked
- PTA has restored mobile internet services in most parts of Pakistan, except for sensitive areas.
- Despite the restoration, social media platforms like Twitter and YouTube are still inaccessible to users.
- WhatsApp, however, remains accessible to users, according to a PTA spokesperson.
Lack of Instructions Delays Social Media Platform Restoration
- PTA spokesperson reveals that the authority is yet to receive instructions from the Ministry of Interior regarding the restoration of social media platforms.
- Until the instructions are received, the ban on social media platforms will remain in effect.
- Mobile internet continues to be fully blocked in sensitive areas across the country.
Background on Social Media Ban and Internet Services
- The ban on social media platforms was implemented by the Ministry of Home Affairs soon after the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan.
- While mobile internet services were completely blocked, most fixed broadband internet services continued to operate, excluding social media platforms.
- The decision to lift the ban is pending and will be made upon instructions from the federal government.
Uncertainty Surrounding Future Internet Shutdowns
- PTA states that no instructions have been received regarding a potential internet shutdown in the near future.
- The possibility of data services being closed down remains uncertain, pending further instructions.
As the PTA awaits instructions from the Ministry of Interior, the ban on social media platforms, including Twitter and YouTube, remains in place. While mobile internet services have been partially restored, the full restoration and access to social media platforms depend on forthcoming instructions from the federal government.
