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Taliban's Internet Shutdown Leaves Millions of Afghans in the Dark

Millions of Afghans, including traders and students, are cut off from the world. The blackout is causing economic strain and limiting access to vital information.

In this image there is a store in that store there are packets and in the background there is a...
In this image there is a store in that store there are packets and in the background there is a wall, on that wall there is some text.

Taliban's Internet Shutdown Leaves Millions of Afghans in the Dark

The Taliban's recent internet shutdown in Afghanistan has left millions of people, including traders and their families, in the dark. The move, ordered by Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada, has severe implications for the country's economy and society.

Previously, the Afghan government had high hopes for its 9,350-kilometer fiber optic network, aiming to lift the country out of poverty through increased connectivity. However, the recent blackout has put an end to these aspirations. More than four million Afghans, who previously relied on social media, are now cut off from the world.

The blackout is causing significant strain on cross-border commerce. Traders in Peshawar report disruptions to their businesses, as they are unable to communicate with customers or recover payments. The inability to travel to Afghanistan to collect debts further exacerbates the situation. Moreover, the blackout censors media in Afghanistan, limiting access to vital information.

The United Nations has warned of a 'very dire situation' with 'serious human rights ramifications'. Afghan women, who previously used online education programs, are now cut off from these opportunities. Remittances, a crucial source of income for many families, are also at risk of being cut off.

The internet blackout in Afghanistan, ordered by Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada, is having severe consequences. It disrupts businesses, limits access to education, and censors media. The United Nations has warned of serious human rights ramifications, highlighting the urgent need for a resolution to this crisis.

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