Telecom Operators Face a Loss of Around Rs 1 Billion During Two Days Blackout

Pakistan’s telecom operators are estimated to have experienced losses of about Rs 1 billion (USD9.56 million) revenue services which were temporarily suspended for two days. The mobile services were terminated on 9th and 10th Muharram. Mobile voice and internet services were deactivated for the purpose of national security throughout the Islamic event, the celebrations of which have been the focus of sectarian ferocity and terrorist attacks in the past.

Telecom Operators Face a Loss of Around Rs 1 Billion During Two Days Blackout

68 districts of the country were affected by the blackout, impacting tens of millions of mobile subscribers, with telecom operators estimating their losses to be about Rs 1 billion, whereas the government also faced a loss of around Rs 300 million in potential tax income from calls and messaging.

The suspension of mobile services were to prevent terror attacks that has become a norm in Pakistan. The services are usually  being banned during all crucial religious and political events. According to the interior minister, cell phones are being used by terrorists to trigger bombs.