The United Nations reports that Afghanistan's internet shutdown has blocked earthquake relief efforts following deadly tremors in August. Humanitarian coordinator Indrika Ratwatte stated Tuesday that telephone and fiber-optic networks remain offline indefinitely, preventing aid workers in mountainous regions from coordinating with central offices. The blackout has stopped international money transfers and banking services while health care operations face severe disruptions.
Relief teams cannot reach survivors in isolated areas of Kunar province, where displaced residents require urgent assistance. The UN demands immediate restoration of communications, warning that vulnerable populations will face increased economic and social difficulties. Airlines suspended flights to Afghanistan on Monday, stranding passengers at Dubai International Airport as the nationwide outage continued. Afghans living abroad lost contact with relatives while businesses and households struggled with halted operations across the country.
Relief teams cannot reach survivors in isolated areas of Kunar province, where displaced residents require urgent assistance. The UN demands immediate restoration of communications, warning that vulnerable populations will face increased economic and social difficulties. Airlines suspended flights to Afghanistan on Monday, stranding passengers at Dubai International Airport as the nationwide outage continued. Afghans living abroad lost contact with relatives while businesses and households struggled with halted operations across the country.
