ISLAMABAD, November 23, 2024 — The federal government has announced a suspension of internet services in key cities of Punjab starting midnight tonight, ahead of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) planned protest on November 24.
The Ministry of Interior confirmed that internet and Wi-Fi services will be disabled in cities including Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, and Multan. However, mobile phone services will remain functional, with authorities reserving the option to suspend mobile signals based on how the situation unfolds.
Earlier reports suggested that both internet and mobile services might face disruptions across parts of Punjab, Islamabad, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as a precautionary measure.
On November 22, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) had already implemented a firewall on mobile internet, leading to slower connections and disruptions on social media platforms.
The government’s measures aim to prevent potential unrest during the PTI’s scheduled protest, emphasizing public safety and maintaining order.