Taliban bans Wi-Fi in Afghan province to "prevent immorality"

Since their return to power in August 2021, the Taliban have imposed a complete ban on fibre optic internet in Afghanistan’s northern Balkh province, citing the need to "prevent immorality," a government spokesman confirmed.

The decision, issued under the directive of Taliban supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada, effectively cuts off Wi-Fi access to government institutions, private businesses, public facilities, and households across the province. Mobile internet services remain operational, though many residents have voiced concerns over their limited speed and high cost, Associated Press reports.

Haji Attaullah Zaid, the provincial government spokesman, confirmed the order and its scope.

“This measure was taken to prevent immorality, and an alternative will be built within the country for necessities,” Zaid told The Associated Press. He declined to provide details about why Balkh specifically was targeted or whether the restriction would expand to other regions.

The sudden internet blackout left many residents bewildered. One local in Mazar-e-Sharif, the provincial capital, said he had initially believed the disruption was due to a technical fault.

“Blocking the internet is beyond my comprehension in such an advanced era,” said the resident, who spoke anonymously out of fear of Taliban reprisals.

He explained that he relied heavily on stable internet access, both for personal and professional reasons. “We do business with people in the outside world and maintain relationships through it. I might have to move from Mazar-e-Sharif to another province because I cannot afford the loss,” he added.

His household of six, including a student, all depended on Wi-Fi, while mobile internet was rarely used due to its sluggish performance and high cost. “If this ban continues, it will not only be detrimental to my business but also to others because all our business is done on the internet,” he warned.

Historically, Afghan authorities have suspended mobile networks during religious observances to mitigate security threats, including the remote detonation of explosive devices. 

By Vafa Guliyeva