Afghans have taken to the streets to rejoice in the restoration of internet and telecom services after the Taliban government shut them down, provoking widespread condemnation.
Local reporters said communications were resuming, while internet monitor Netblocks confirmed a 'partial restoration' of connectivity. A source close to the government confirmed to BBC Afghan that the internet was back by order of the Taliban prime minister.
The 48-hour blackout disrupted businesses and flights, limited access to emergency services, and raised fears about further isolating women and girls whose rights have been severely eroded since the hardline Islamist group swept back to power in 2021.
On Wednesday evening hundreds of Afghans took to the streets in the capital city Kabul to celebrate the internet’s return. One local expressed, Everyone is happy, holding their cell phones and talking to their relatives. The spokesman for the Taliban reported that all communications were restored by Wednesday afternoon, yet no official explanation for the shutdown has been given.
Previously, a spokesperson for the Taliban in the northern Balkh province mentioned blocking internet access for 'the prevention of vices'. Since their return to power, numerous restrictions have been imposed, particularly affecting women, with many reporting that the internet was their lifeline after bans were placed on girls over 12 from receiving an education.
During the blackout, Afghanistan was almost completely isolated, disrupting essential services and limiting economic stability. Business closures and the cancellation of flights further amplified the crisis, while families abroad struggled to communicate with their loved ones.
Upon restoration, the mood shifted dramatically, with one delivery driver describing the return as almost festive, similar to a religious celebration. A 24-year-old woman now studying in the UK conveyed her overwhelming joy at finally connecting with her family after the silence, reflecting the deep emotional impact of the telecom connectivity on the Afghan populace.
