At the time of writing this, TechJuice has confirmed from multiple PTCL users that the popular video sharing and consuming platform YouTube is opening for users. There have been multiple accounts of YouTube also working for users with its native application on mobile.
It is to be noted here, that YouTube has been blocked by PTA since 2012. Once in a while, it does become accessible to users for a short period of time, however, the situation never lasts long and it is back to its inaccessible state. A lot of users have been accessing the site by changing the DNS of their local devices to the ones of OpenDNS and Google. We strongly believe it is a technical issue this time as well, else PTA would have gone ahead with a proper announcement of reopening the platform in Pakistan. However, we know the government stands reluctant to restore YouTube due to financial constraints.
In September this year, a senate body did seek out solutions to reopen the site for its users. YouTube has been blocked in Pakistan over its failure to take down the blasphemous “Innocence of Muslims” movie that sparked furious protests around the world. Whereas, human rights and social media activists in Pakistan have always raised concerns regarding the blockage of the site and the limited access to common internet user in Pakistan.
You can enjoy the website till it is accessible. While you are at it, there are quite a few YouTube alternatives in Pakistan which can be your go-to choice e.g Tune.pk, PlayIt.pk etc.
Is Youtube working for you? Can you mention your Internet Service Provider and Area name in the comments below.
