JAMMING cellular service on Eid, Ashura and other important occasions is common in Pakistan. However, it seems to have been closed down for good in all localities lying in the vicinity of the Central Jail Karachi.

Jammers were installed at the Central Jail Karachi about six months back, making cellular services impossible for all nearby areas, including PIB Colony, Ghousia Colony, and Jamshed Road.

The decision was taken by the mutual consent of jail authorities and the provisional government upon receiving threats from some unknown persons regarding helping several high-profile prisoners escape.

Due to the non-availability of cellular service, residents of the above-mentioned localities are having a tough time in contacting their relatives. Besides, it has badly affected shopkeepers and businessmen, making them go through losses. Several protests have been held by the people in front of the jail for the removal of jammers but in vain.

I appeal to the jail authorities and the provisional government for the immediate restoration of cellular service. Besides, the Supreme Court is requested to take suo motu notice of this.

Vinod Kumar

Karachi

Published in Dawn, August 30th, 2014