Online businesses in Payathonzu, a border town in Kyainseikgyi Township, Karen State, are experiencing delays due to ongoing mobile network and internet disruptions, local sources report.
Since the morning of February 21, Thai mobile operators, including AIS, have cut off phone and internet services in the area. On February 26, Thai providers TrueMove and DTAC also shut down their networks, further isolating residents.
“The lack of network access makes it impossible to communicate with customers. For example, if a buyer asks whether their package has arrived or requests a specific delivery address, we can’t respond. Customers who need urgent deliveries get frustrated, and we can’t even check package status with transport services,” said an online business owner in Payathonzu.
The disruptions follow Thai authorities’ crackdown on cross-border cyber fraud operations. Since February 5, Thailand has cut off electricity and fuel supplies in five border areas, including Payathonzu, and has now extended these restrictions to telecommunication networks.
In addition to affecting online businesses, the blackout has created communication difficulties for residents during emergencies.
“People are struggling to stay in touch. Right now, we rely on Wi-Fi from other homes, but it only works indoors. If we go outside, we lose connectivity. If something happens on the road, we can’t make phone calls,” a resident explained, adding that Myanmar’s Atom SIM cards still provide limited connectivity.
Many Payathonzu residents who can afford it have installed solar panels to ensure access to electricity, water, and Wi-Fi. However, for most, communication remains a challenge as they navigate the ongoing restrictions.
