Internet users across Pakistan have been experiencing significant Internet slowdowns since morning today on 23 August, 2024, causing widespread disruptions in various sectors, particularly among freelancers and software houses that rely heavily on stable and fast internet connections for their day-to-day operations. The Internet speed is flauctuating and very unstable.
According to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), the slowdown is attributed to faults in two major submarine cables that facilitate the country’s internet connectivity. Repair efforts are underway, and at least one of the affected cables is expected to be fixed by August 28, 2024. The PTA has assured users that services will gradually improve as restoration work progresses.
Impact on the IT Community
The unexpected decrease in internet speed has left many in the IT community struggling to meet deadlines and fulfill timely commitments. Freelancers report difficulties in accessing essential online platforms, while software development firms face setbacks in project deliveries due to prolonged upload and download times.
“The slow internet speed has virtually brought our operations to a standstill. We are unable to communicate effectively with our international clients or push critical updates,” said Ahmed Khan, CEO of a Lahore-based software company. “If this continues, it could have serious financial implications for businesses like ours.”
Some users have resorted to using Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to circumvent the slow speeds and access necessary services, although this is not a sustainable solution for all affected parties.
Meanwhile, Federal Minister of State for Information Technology, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, attributed Pakistan’s slow internet speeds to the widespread use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs).
PTA Denies Throttling Claims
Amidst growing speculation, the PTA has firmly denied claims that the slowdown is a result of deliberate throttling through a “Firewall” or Web Management System (WMS) aimed at controlling and limiting access to certain content, social media platforms, websites, and VPN services.
In an official statement, the PTA emphasized, “The current disruption is purely technical due to unforeseen faults in submarine cables. There is no intentional reduction in internet speeds or access limitations imposed by any governmental system or directive.”
Despite these assurances, skepticism remains among some users who question the timing and extent of the slowdown, urging greater transparency from authorities regarding the situation and remediation efforts.
Government Officials Active on Banned Platform X
Adding to the controversy, several government ministers, officials and official departments continue to actively use the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter) to disseminate updates and information, despite the platform being officially banned in Pakistan by the Interior Ministry. The issue has been raised in multiple cabinet meetings, yet no definitive resolution has been reached to address this apparent contradiction.
“This double standard is frustrating. While ordinary citizens face restrictions and now even technical issues accessing the internet, officials freely use banned platforms without repercussions,” commented Sarah Malik, a digital rights activist based in Islamabad.
The PTA has expressed confidence that normal internet services will resume gradually after August 28, 2024, once repairs to the submarine cables are completed. In the meantime, users are advised to exercise patience and utilize available resources judiciously to mitigate the impact of the slowdown.
The incident highlights the critical dependence on stable internet infrastructure and the need for robust contingency plans to ensure continuity in the face of technical disruptions. As Pakistan’s digital economy continues to grow, investments in improving and securing internet connectivity remain paramount to support the country’s socio-economic development.
For now: Top 5 of the best free VPNs are useful to support your day-to-day work.
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