Pakistan Telecommunication Authority is totally silent on anticipated mobile service shut downs in various cities of Pakistan on 9th and 10th of Muharram, hence we can’t tell with certainty about cities where services will be suspended tomorrow and day after tomorrow.
While we know for a fact — based on recent track record — that mobile phone services will be shut down on 9th and 10th of Muharram, we are still awaiting the official confirmation on this.
PTA is apparently not sharing any info on cellular suspension due to security reasons. Insiders aren’t saying a word on cities where services will be suspended or the timings of service suspension.
PTA is saying that information is yet to be received from interior ministry.
Interior ministry sources, who aren’t entirely sure as well — but based on previous shut downs during Muharram last year — said that cellular services could be suspended in dozens of cities.
They added that services could be shut down from 8AM till 10PM at least on both the days for some cities, while other cities may face network shut down on just the 10th of Muharram.
Here are the cities where services are likely to remain shut down:
It must be noted that all wireless networks (GSM, 3G, 4G, CDMA, EvDO, WiMAX) will be down during the time.
Those who rely on 3G, 4G, EvDO, WiMAX for primary internet will remain without internet as well.
It maybe recalled that those with DSL, FTTH internet will be able to communicate through mobile apps, such as Whatsapp.
Landline connections, i.e PTCL and other local loop services (phones connected through fiber optic media) will continue to operate during the service closure. And if you have interner through fixed line then you can remain in touch with friends and family through mobile apps.
Services that rely on mobile internet, such as Careem will be down during the time. Careem has already informed its customers that they are closed till Wednesday midnight. Careem will not be accepting “later bookings” during the suspension time as well.
Also Read: Internet Shutdowns in Pakistan Cost the Country $70 Million Last Year