On Saturday evening, WhatsApp users across Pakistan experienced major disruptions, particularly with the inability to send media files, as reported by global internet monitoring group NetBlocks. These disruptions are occurring against the backdrop of heightened security measures ahead of a planned protest by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), which is calling for the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan.
NetBlocks confirmed that WhatsApp is largely unavailable across most internet service providers (ISPs) in Pakistan, with an overall reachability rate of 0%. However, partial access remains, with around 50% of servers connected to Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) still able to maintain connections to the app. Punjab has been the hardest hit by the disruptions, while Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has experienced sporadic issues, and Karachi saw the most significant impact in Sindh.
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The disruption, which appears to be focused on media-sharing capabilities, has frustrated users who have taken to social media to express their dissatisfaction. Such outages have been a recurring issue during politically sensitive times, especially during PTI protests.
In response, PTI supporters have launched a campaign on social media, calling for Elon Musk to expand Starlink, SpaceX’s satellite internet service, to Pakistan. Starlink is viewed as a potential solution to provide more reliable internet access, especially in remote areas of the country.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Interior confirmed that mobile data and internet services may be temporarily suspended in high-risk security areas during PTI’s protest, but these measures will be targeted rather than nationwide. Wi-Fi services may also be impacted in certain areas, though mobile calling services will generally remain available unless the security situation necessitates further restrictions.
The Ministry emphasized that public safety remains the priority, with services adjusted accordingly to mitigate any potential security threats during the protest.
