When the Internet Goes Down in Myanmar, It’s Not Just a Tech Issue—It’s a Human One
What’s Happening?
Up to 700,000 people in Myanmar are suddenly out of the digital world after a series of hit‑and‑run raids on telecom towers operated by Mytel, a joint venture between the army and Vietnam’s defense ministry.
The Backstory
- The National Unity Government (NUG), a shadow administration set up to fight the Feb. 1 coup, declared a “people’s defensive war” against the junta last week.
- Since Aung San Suu Kyi’s government was toppled, the country’s been hot‑potato‑ish—think protests, strikes, and a wave of anti‑junta militias.
- Now, the underground NUG has escalated the conflict, calling on the newly formed People’s Defence Forces (PDF) to strike at the junta and its prized assets.
Why Does Losing Internet Matter?
Every knocked‑down tower isn’t just a cold metal pillar—it’s a lifeline for millions. Without it, folks can’t:
- Access news and stay in the loop (no more scrolling through memes).
- Learn from online courses and tutorials.
- Use essential services like banking, healthcare, and emergency alerts.
The Numbers
Gee-whiz, the Irrawaddy newspaper reported that more than 80 Mytel towers were destroyed, mainly in rural spots. PDF claims responsibility in some of these areas.
Bottom Line
The telecom chaos is not just about broken wires; it’s a hampering of everyday life. 700,000 people caught in this digital black hole are feeling the impact on education, work, and the everyday flow of information.
EXPLOSIONS
Bang! Telecommunication Towers Go Explosive—Who’s Behind the Chaos?
68 Shots Logged by the Army, No Label for the Culprits
The military’s own newsletter (dated Sept. 12) lists 68 explosions at public telecom towers—yet it’s as vague as a fortune cookie. The army asks the world to blame the “NUG terrorist organisation,” but drops the actual names, leaving readers scratching their heads.
Social Media Frisbee: Picture That’s Maybe a Propaganda Play
Videos circulating online appear to show blasts, but Reuters can’t verify whether the army really fired the shots or it’s just a blurry public‑media stunt. Embarrassing, isn’t it?
Internet Fiasco: Military Shut‑Downs, Demonstrations, and Zero Global Help
In a desperate attempt to curb protests, the military frequently pulls the plug on the internet—especially in big cities. While the NUG—Myanmar’s National Unity Government—clings to hope, no international support has translated into real‑world aid.
“We’ll Just Keep Walking” — The NUG’s Road to Revolution
“Now people have realised that we must walk till the end regardless of international assistance or not,” says NUG deputy minister Maw Htun Aung via text.
Chinland’s “Revolutionary” Supporter Breaks the Silence
- “I will have high hopes in our revolution if all the PDFs around the country rise up in arms,” claims a 27‑year‑old supporter of the Chinland Defence Force, headquartered in the border region with India.
- Yet, as of now, the armed PDF groups are “not ready.”
In a Nutshell: Explosions, Internet Shutdowns, and Unmatched Resistance
While the NUG stirs the crowd with a bold declaration, the real test is whether Myanmar’s savvy military will be caught off guard by the coordinated uprising or remain firmly in control. Stick around—history is about to rewrite itself.
