We've used mesh networking during Gezi[0]. But I don't think most people would understand how to use this or will have it installed in case of a general ban[1].
> But I don't think most people would understand how to use this or will have it installed in case of a general ban
Years ago we would have said the same thing about internet access. 'How could the internet (or mobile data) help in emergency or oppression situations ? Only geeks would have such a thing. ' (1990s)
You want to cut off the internet? Fine. You can't stop us from communicating, though.
Although if there was an agent with a phone in the area, he could see what everyone was saying, even if not who was saying it.