Prolonged internet outage hits hard students, businesses in South Waziristan

SOUTH WAZIRISTAN: Residents of several areas in Lower South Waziristan, according to local residents, students. members of the business community have been facing difficulties due to complete suspension of mobile internet services for the past two months.

A local resident said the mobile internet service has remained unavailable across multiple areas of Birmal. Wana tehsils, leaving thousands of users without access to essential communication and digital services.

The affected areas in Birmal tehsil include Azam Warsak, Kalotai, Landi Doag, Ji Khel Staff, Shin Warsak. Nargasi, while residents of Ghowa Kohwa, Zeri Noor, Dazha Ghundai and Kari Kot in tehsil Wana are also experiencing prolonged suspension of mobile internet connectivity.

Local residents said that internet access has become a basic necessity in modern life. the continued disruption has severely affected daily routines and communication.

They noted that many essential services now depend on internet connectivity. making the prolonged outage increasingly burdensome for communities across the region.

Students have expressed particular concern over the suspension, stating that it has negatively impacted their education.

Many reported difficulties accessing online learning materials, conducting academic research, communicating with educational institutions and preparing for examinations.

Several students said they have been unable to participate in online courses and educational programmes that require stable internet access.

The business community has also voiced concern over the continued disruption. Local traders say that modern commercial activities rely heavily on internet-based services including online banking, digital payments, communication with suppliers. customers, and access to market information.

Some traders stated that they are forced to travel to distant locations where internet connectivity is available in order to complete essential transactions. maintain communication with business partners.

Local youth. social activists said that the suspension has also limited access to information and reduced opportunities for residents to remain connected with national and international developments.

Residents have appealed to the federal government, Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). other relevant institutions to take immediate steps to restore mobile internet services in the affected areas.

They emphasised that the continued suspension was not only disrupting educational. economic activities but was also making it difficult for people to maintain contact with relatives, public institutions and emergency services when needed.

Meanwhile,Dawntried to contact the district administration officials. other relevant authorities to obtain their position on the issue, but no official response was received by the time this report was filed.

Published in Dawn, June 17th, 2026