Millions of WhatsApp users across Pakistan faced disruptions in services on cellular networks starting from 10 Muharram (Ashura). This issue primarily affects mobile data users, with Jazz, Telenor, Ufone, and Zong subscribers being the most impacted.
Social media reports, verified by ProPakistani, indicate that while WhatsApp calls and text messages are functioning normally, media files like videos and images are not loading as expected. However, WhatsApp continues to operate smoothly for users on wired broadband (WiFi) connections.
The problem with media loading was most severe during the peak hours following Youm e Ashur. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has yet to release an official statement explaining the prolonged disruption.
Major cellular operators are investigating the issue. Previously, the problem had spread to other apps within the Metaverse, such as Instagram and Facebook, causing these apps to crash multiple times a day, as reported by users on X and LinkedIn. Currently, the disruption appears to be confined to WhatsApp services for mobile network users.
Earlier in the week, local authorities restricted access to Facebook without any formal announcement, leading to difficulties for users across various internet service providers (ISPs). According to Downdetector, this restriction also affected Instagram and WhatsApp.
Disruptions reported at the time of filing:
At the time of reporting, it was expected that the restriction would not extend beyond July 17. However, it appears that the government is uncertain about how to properly lift the restriction or whether it should be removed at all.
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