Internet Slowdown in Pakistan Linked to Surge in Surveillance Measures
Internet speeds witnessed around 30%-40% reduction, says WISPAP
As internet users in Pakistan grapple with ongoing access and speed problems, the Wireless and Internet Service Providers Association of Pakistan (WISPAP) attributes these issues to heightened security and surveillance measures.
“It’s a very discouraging situation for our customers. Many are leaving the smaller ISPs because they cannot sustain the poor service quality anymore. If this continues, we will see a mass exodus of businesses from Pakistan,” said WISPAP Chairman Shahzad Arshad on Thursday.
The WISPAP chairman detailed that internet speeds have decreased by 30% to 40%, severely impacting businesses and individuals reliant on stable connectivity.
The WISPAP chairman emphasized the negative impact of internet issues on online and electronic businesses, crucial to the country’s digital economy. He cautioned that these sectors are “struggling to stay operational, with the slowdown jeopardizing their survival.”
His comments come amid a lack of response from the coalition government led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), even as millions across the country face difficulties accessing internet services, particularly with mobile data in certain areas.
