The Taliban enforced a complete ban on fibre optic internet in Afghanistan’s northern Balkh province. Officials said the order came directly from leader Hibatullah Akhundzada to stop what they called “immorality.” Mobile data remains available, but residents and institutions lost cable internet entirely.
First Fibre Ban Since Taliban Seized Power
This marks the first ban of its kind since the Taliban retook control in August 2021. Government departments, businesses, schools, and households in Balkh now operate without Wi-Fi. Provincial spokesman Haji Attaullah Zaid confirmed the measure and claimed authorities will eventually build a domestic alternative. He refused to explain why Balkh became the first target or whether other regions will face similar restrictions.
Residents Struggle Without Reliable Connection
A Balkh resident reported losing connectivity days earlier and contacted his provider, which blamed technical problems. He later discovered the shutdown resulted from the Taliban’s ban. “Blocking the internet is beyond my comprehension in such an advanced era,” the man said, speaking anonymously to avoid punishment. He admitted he rarely used mobile data because it remained costly and slow.
Ban Threatens Jobs and Daily Life
The resident explained that his work depends on constant communication with partners abroad. “A stable connection is essential for my livelihood,” he said. He added that he might relocate from Mazar-e-Sharif to another province to survive financially. Others in the region face similar problems as commerce, education, and administration stall without fast internet.
Authorities Retain Control Over Mobile Networks
Afghan officials often suspend mobile services during religious events to prevent remote bomb detonations. However, the latest decision targets fibre internet permanently. By cutting off the fastest connection in Balkh, the Taliban tightened its grip on digital access and left residents dependent on costly, unreliable mobile data.
