Pakistan's Internet Woes: Undersea Cable Fault Slows Connections
Millions of Pakistanis face slower internet due to a faulty undersea cable. The issue, affecting nearly half the population, is expected to be resolved by month's end.
In recent weeks, Pakistan has been grappling with a significant internet slowdown, affecting millions of users across the country. The issue, stemming from a faulty undersea cable, has impacted nearly half of the nation's 241 million inhabitants.
Hafeezur Rehman, chairman of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), addressed the problem for the first time, stating that the technical issues would be resolved by August 27, 2024. This announcement comes after weeks of nationwide complaints and disruptions to businesses and social media platforms.
The PTA, established in 1996, oversees telecommunications in Pakistan, which has seen remarkable growth in internet usage since its first connection in 1995. From a mere 0.1% of the population in 2000, internet penetration has surged to over 48% in 2021, with the country now boasting 110 million internet users.
The current slowdown has particularly affected popular platforms like WhatsApp, the most widely used messaging app in Pakistan. With internet speeds reduced by up to 40%, users have faced challenges in accessing and using various online services.
Despite the ongoing issues, Pakistan's digital landscape continues to evolve. The country's IT exports have been on an upward trajectory, reaching $2.1 billion in 2021, with ambitious goals to hit $5 billion by 2023. Moreover, the e-commerce market is projected to expand to $7.6 billion by 2025, highlighting the growing importance of reliable internet infrastructure.
While Pakistan's internet penetration rate remains below the global average, the government has been actively working to improve digital infrastructure and promote digital literacy. These efforts are crucial as the country, with the world's 5th largest population, aims to harness the full potential of the digital economy.
The current internet woes serve as a reminder of the challenges facing Pakistan's digital growth. Past incidents of internet shutdowns and content regulation, including the implementation of social media rules, have raised concerns about digital rights and freedom of expression.
As Pakistan continues to invest in its digital future, including the expansion of 3G/4G networks that now serve over 76 million subscribers, addressing infrastructure vulnerabilities will be key to ensuring stable and accessible internet for all citizens.
