Afghanistan's Islamist Taliban authorities have ordered a nationwide shutdown of the country's fiber optic internet "until further notice," according to a government source who spoke with French news agency AFP on the condition of anonymity. It is unclear how long telephone and cellular networks will be affected, or to what degree. Residents in Mazar-i-Sharif reported that the shutdown began on September 15, following orders from local authorities. The blackout left citizens without internet access or the ability to make phone calls nationwide. ” Local media reported the suspensions have already taken place in Balkh, Kunduz, Baghlan, Takhar and Badakhshan. Fiber-optic and mobile internet access has been cut off, and experts warn of serious consequences for trade and girls' access to education. Fiber-optic internet and mobile data services across Afghanistan were down on Tuesday with no immediate explanation from the Taliban government.
