Happiness in Kabul as Web Access Return After Lengthy Shutdown

Just before dusk on midweek, the mostly empty streets of Afghanistan's capital quickly crowded with residents – handsets everywhere had regained service.

With phones pressed to their ears, residents poured on to the streets of Kabul to verify connectivity.

"Hooray, the internet is back!" a shopkeeper shouted, as motorists honked in answer.

Youngsters were handed colorful inflatables, mothers and fathers bought candies and companions met in restaurants – all while chatting animatedly on their phones.

Communication Crisis

For 48 hours, residents had been offline, cut off from telecommunications, in a internet blackout implemented by authorities without explanation.

"It felt like we had gone back centuries. We were contemplating sending written messages just to get news from our loved ones," said Mohammad Rafi, a shop owner.

"The streets were empty – it felt like a holiday even though it was a business day. But now, even in nighttime, it's populated again."

Commercial Effects

A delivery driver, a professional, had sat idle for multiple days, unable to reach customers through the applications he uses.

Now, multiple delivery vehicles are lined up to collect orders from restaurants glowing with advertisements or from beverage sellers broadcasting audio.

"It resembles a major festival; it's like preparing to go for prayer," he stated.

Community Shifts

Also visible on the streets was an increase in the number of female residents, who have faced extensive regulations under the current government, including a ban on education beyond elementary education.

"I feel incredibly thankful. It feels like a weight lifted," said an anonymous source who is studying online.

"Virtual learning are the primary chance left for female students."

Worldwide Attention

The United Nations said the shutdown in connectivity endangered financial security and intensified one of the world's most severe humanitarian crises.

The government is has not responded on the blackout.

Historical Context

The failure came shortly after the authorities said it would begin cutting high-speed internet in some regions to prevent "immorality".

The digital connectivity was still a developing system during the past administration between the late 1990s, when the country was too damaged by fighting and impoverished to build infrastructure.

Contemporary Reliance

But in recent decades, the financial system has become heavily leaning on internet connectivity. Even in countryside regions, many residents use cellphones to conduct business.

"Technology has evolved. This is not like 30 years ago," said Ghulam Rabbani.

"We remained optimistic that connectivity would be restored. It was a disadvantage for all people – including the authorities."