LONDON: Taliban authorities have blocked fiber-optic internet across northern provinces of Afghanistan, claiming the move was necessary “to prevent immoral activities.”
Local media report that as many as 10 provinces — including Kunduz, Badakhshan, Baghlan, Takhar, and Balkh — have been affected, leaving government offices, businesses, public institutions, and homes without fiber-optic access.
The ban applies only to connections via fiber-optic cable, while mobile internet remains available, according to officials.
“The measure was taken to prevent immorality, and an alternative will be developed inside the country for essential needs,” said Haji Attaullah Zaid, a Taliban provincial spokesman.
He added that the ban was ordered by Afghanistan’s Supreme Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada.
No explanation was given for why Balkh was among the first provinces targeted, or for how long the restrictions would remain in place.
Local news outlet Afghanistan International reports that the fiber-optic ban could be extended nationwide, with further provinces such as Kandahar, Uruzgan, Helmand, and Nimroz already experiencing disruptions.
Rights groups have expressed alarm, urging the Taliban to reverse the block due to far-reaching consequences for Afghan society.
Many nongovernmental organizations say the measure has especially affected women and girls, who rely on online education following Taliban bans on school and university attendance.
Fiber-optic internet is a vital resource for companies, banks, and government agencies, and its loss risks deepening the country’s existing economic crisis.
Beh Lih Yi, regional director at the Committee to Protect Journalists, called the blockade “an unprecedented escalation of censorship that will undermine journalists’ work and the public’s right to information.”
