Past

Regional shutdown

Mobile Internet services

Islamabad & Rawalpindi

The internet shutdown in Islamabad in March 2019 occurred during Pakistan Day celebrations on March 23. The government suspended mobile and internet services in Islamabad and Rawalpindi as part of security measures. These actions aimed to ensure public safety during large gatherings and parades, a common practice in the region during national events to minimize potential threats. The disruption affected residents' access to communication, navigation tools, and digital services, significantly impacting daily life and business activities​

  • Total Duration 0 minutes

Flag of Pakistan Pakistan

Population
251,269,164

Freedom House rates Internet freedom as Not Free

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Local impact

The internet shutdown in Islamabad in March 2019 occurred during Pakistan Day celebrations on March 23. The government suspended mobile and internet services in Islamabad and Rawalpindi as part of security measures. These actions aimed to ensure public safety during large gatherings and parades, a common practice in the region during national events to minimize potential threats. The disruption affected residents' access to communication, navigation tools, and digital services, significantly impacting daily life and business activities​

Related documentation

No cause documentation has been made public.

Other supporting information

It’s difficult to measure the effect of local/regional Internet shutdowns as most measurements are done at a country level. Learn more.