The Balochistan High Court has ordered the immediate restoration of mobile internet services, ending a 15-day suspension imposed over “security reasons.”

The case was filed by Khair Muhammad Shaheen, chair of Balochistan’s Consumer Civil Society, who argued that the shutdown violated fundamental rights, including access to information, education, trade, and equality. A two-member bench led by Chief Justice Rozi Khan Barrech ruled that services must resume in Quetta within two hours, warning the PTA of contempt of court if delays persist.

Following the order, mobile internet was restored in Quetta and parts of Pishin and Chaman, with officials confirming full resumption in Dalbandin, Pishin, Chaman, and Taftan within hours. The hearing was adjourned until August 25.

The suspension, initially announced until August 31, had disrupted businesses, education, and communication across the province. Rights groups note that repeated shutdowns have become common amid worsening security in Balochistan.