LAHORE – WhatsApp and several other social apps like Instagram continue to remain affected amid protests of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf in capital city of Islamabad.

As the metropolis braces for large-scale protests, millions are affected by communication disruptions, particularly on WhatsApp, as government tightened noose. WhatsApp users are facing significant disruption, as users are unable to send pictures, audio, and other media.

These disruptions become particularly challenging for those using mobile data, amid extreme steps to curb spread of protest-related content.

‘WhatsApp Down in Pakistan’

The disruptions are likely to continue throughout week as supporters of Imran Khan move toward Islamabad. Security concerns also led to imposition of strict communication blackouts, with internet monitoring platforms noting widespread outages.

The government also ramped up security measures around Islamabad and Rawalpindi, fortifying city with barricades and heavy deployment of police, Rangers, and FC personnel.

Ministry of Interior earlier warned of internet services disruption in certain high-risk areas throughout the protest period. Mobile data and internet access could be entirely disabled in specific areas where security measures are being enforced.