Will internet be suspended in Pakistan for 18 hours?

Netizens in Pakistan have taken to social media platforms expressing concern over the purported internet shutdown amid widespread rumours claiming an 18-hour-long suspension, which has left Pakistanis worried.

Various users on X are claiming that internet services in Pakistan will be suspended for 18 hours starting from 11am on Tuesday (today).

The rumour mill didn't stop here as another user claimed an 18-hour internet shutdown in the country.

"Nationwide Internet Shutdown for 18 Hours Starting 11 AM Tomorrow," wrote another user — with the post having an uncanny similarity with the earlier posts, reflecting the extent and reach of the rumour mill that has worried netizens.

"The internet in Pakistan is about to shut down in sometime. God knows what's gonna happen in that time frame," said another user.

Other users on X also shared similar posts, claiming the internet would remain suspended in Pakistan for 18 hours.

No shutdown

However, none of these rumours are true and the internet is not going to be down in the country for 18 hours or any other time period.

The Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) has only warned of internet degradation or partial disruption due to maintenance work on one of its submarine cables.

"A maintenance activity is planned on one of our Submarine cables to repair a faulty repeater. The activity will start on October 14, 2025 around 11am PST which can last for up to 18 hours," the authority said in a statement.

During this period, users across Pakistan may face slow internet speeds or intermittent connectivity issues. The spokesperson expressed regret over the inconvenience caused.