The recent confirmation by Pakistan’s IT minister regarding the upgrading of the country’s ‚web management system‘ for increased cyber security has sparked a wave of speculation and concern among internet users and businesses alike. The government’s actions, which have been linked to internet disruptions, slow browsing speeds, and connectivity issues with popular social media platforms like WhatsApp, have been a cause of frustration for many.
The Minister of State for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, addressed the issue during a press conference after a Senate Standing Committee meeting on Information Technology and Telecommunication. She stated that the government was upgrading its web management system to enhance cyber security in response to the growing threats faced by Pakistan in the digital realm. While the minister emphasized the importance of internet speed and the potential for introducing 5G technology in the country, she downplayed the concerns surrounding the ‚firewall‘ that many believe is causing the disruptions.
During the Senate committee meeting, lawmakers expressed their concerns about the impact of internet disruptions on online businesses and IT exports. Senator Afnanullah Khan highlighted the potential economic losses that could result from the ongoing issues, urging the government to address the situation promptly. The Ministry of IT and Telecommunications secretary, Aisha Humera Chaudhry, assured the committee that efforts were being made to assess the issue and provide a comprehensive overview in the coming weeks.
Despite official statements from government officials, users continued to face difficulties accessing social media platforms and experiencing slow internet speeds. The disruptions have not only affected individuals but also businesses, with some considering relocating their operations to other countries due to the unreliable internet connectivity in Pakistan.
In response to the ongoing internet disruptions, various industry bodies, including the Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA) and the Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI), have raised concerns about the impact on the economy and foreign direct investment. P@SHA called for an immediate halt to the disruptions and urged the government to engage with the industry to develop a cybersecurity framework that ensures the stability of the digital infrastructure.
The Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) also voiced its concerns about the disruptions, highlighting the challenges faced by its members in communicating with clients and conducting business activities. The KCCI president emphasized the importance of restoring internet connectivity promptly to support the digitalization efforts in Pakistan.
Overall, the ongoing internet disruptions in Pakistan have raised significant concerns among users, businesses, and industry bodies. The government’s efforts to enhance cyber security must be balanced with the need to maintain a reliable and efficient internet infrastructure to support the country’s digital economy and international competitiveness.