The recent internet disruptions in Pakistan have caused widespread concern among businesses and individuals who rely on fast and reliable connectivity. The State Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, addressed the issue by stating that the slowdown is a result of excessive Virtual Private Network (VPN) usage by the public. This statement comes in response to claims of the government blocking or slowing down internet services.
According to a report by the Express Tribune, the spike in VPN usage has led to a massive load on internet services, causing them to slow down significantly. This has created problems for businesses, individuals, and various sectors that heavily depend on fast and reliable internet connectivity. The Lahore High Court recently directed the federal government and the Pakistan Telecommunications Authority (PTA) to submit their responses to the internet disruptions affecting millions of people in Pakistan.
The federal government has attributed the issue to the testing of an internet firewall aimed at regulating social media and blocking unwanted content. However, the slowdown in internet speeds has raised concerns among industry leaders, who warn that the current conditions are damaging Pakistan’s ability to compete globally and threatening its reputation as a digital entrepreneurship hub.
The Wireless and Internet Service Providers Association of Pakistan (WISPAP) issued a statement highlighting the serious damage caused to the country’s digital economy by the government’s move to boost security and surveillance. The slowdown has particularly affected call centers, e-commerce professionals, remote workers, and individuals running electronic-related businesses, who are now struggling to maintain operations.
The situation has become so critical that many businesses are considering relocating their operations to countries with more stable internet services. WISPAP Chairman Shahzad Arshad expressed frustration over the poor service quality, stating that if the situation continues, there could be a mass exodus of businesses from Pakistan.
The heightened surveillance and restrictions on VPN usage are exacerbating the problem, especially for international businesses and freelancers who require secure and consistent internet access for their work. Despite denials from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) regarding the government-installed firewall being responsible for the disruptions, the future of Pakistan’s digital landscape remains uncertain.
In conclusion, the internet slowdown in Pakistan has had far-reaching implications for businesses, individuals, and the digital economy as a whole. It is essential for the government and relevant authorities to address these issues promptly to ensure the country’s competitiveness and stability in the digital age.