In a letter to the Ministry of Interior dated October 30, the provincial government had asked to suspend the 3G and 4G internet services throughout Quetta on October 31.

The letter said, "Due to the sensitive law and order situation and prevailing threat perceptions, mobile data services are required to be suspended in district Quetta."

The decision comes amid increased militant activity in Balochistan, where rebel groups have launched more frequent attacks in recent months, deteriorating the overall security situation.

It also comes just two months after a similar internet suspension in August, when mobile data services were halted across the province for “security reasons.” However, on August 21 — after 16 days of disruption — the Balochistan High Court ordered the immediate restoration of internet connectivity.

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A report earlier this year showed that Pakistan suffered the highest financial loss globally because of internet and social media shutdowns in 2023, with estimated losses of $1.62 billion, surpassing the losses in even conflict-hit countries such as Sudan and Myanmar.

The latest suspension in Quetta has raised once again the economic and social impact of frequent internet shutdowns that have disrupted communication, business, and daily life across Balochistan.