Digital blackout: How internet shutdowns devastate the economy and daily life in North Waziristan, Pakistan

A ten-day internet and mobile phone service shutdown in North Waziristan, Pakistan from July 7-17, 2025 severely disrupted the local economy, government operations, education, and journalism. The blackout, which followed a June 28 suicide attack on security forces, caused significant financial losses to thousands of local traders and businesses, with daily losses estimated at 200,000-300,000 Pakistani Rupees per trader. Though services were restored after tribal elders met with government officials on July 11, connectivity remains poor in many areas, particularly affecting the region's approximately 693,300 residents who already experience lower internet penetration rates compared to Pakistan's national average of 45.