Pakistan’s internet slowdown is expected to continue for several months, with a critical fault in the SMW-4 submarine cable anticipated to be resolved by October 2024, according to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA).
The slowdown, caused by issues in two of the seven international submarine cables (SMW-4 and AAE-1) connecting Pakistan globally, has significantly impacted users across the country. While repairs on the AAE-1 cable have been completed, offering some improvement in connectivity, the overall situation remains challenging.
Shahzad Arshad, Chairman of the Wireless Internet Service Providers Association of Pakistan (WISPAP), expressed concerns over the increasing strain on Pakistan’s internet infrastructure. He highlighted that the ongoing disruptions underscore deeper issues related to management and infrastructure development. According to Arshad, the current situation exposes the nation’s vulnerability to digital disruptions and calls for a comprehensive overhaul of the internet infrastructure, rather than relying on short-term fixes.
Arshad emphasized the importance of establishing multi-gigabit connected Internet Exchange Points (IXPs) across all telecom regions, noting that such measures are essential for maintaining network stability even during localized outages. He pointed out that other nations have successfully implemented similar frameworks, which have strengthened their digital resilience.
Adding to the challenges, the delayed activation of the PEACE cable and slow progress on the China-Pakistan fiber link both considered crucial for improving connectivity have further complicated the situation. The lack of clear timelines for these projects has heightened uncertainty among the public and businesses, while government responses have been deemed inadequate. The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has also expressed dissatisfaction with the official explanations provided so far.
Arshad warned that the current internet issues may persist longer than expected, dampening hopes for a swift resolution. He urged the government and telecom authorities to take robust action to prevent future disruptions, as the consequences are significant for freelancers, educational institutions, and businesses relying on stable digital connectivity.
The situation has sparked a broader conversation about the sustainability and resilience of Pakistan’s internet infrastructure. As the world becomes increasingly digital, Pakistan must adopt forward-thinking policies and strengthen its technological framework to avoid deeper economic repercussions and a widening digital divide.
The pressing question remains whether the government and telecom authorities can effectively address these challenges or if the country will continue to face ongoing inefficiencies and delays. The future of Pakistan’s digital infrastructure depends on strategic actions, transparency, and a commitment to strengthening the nation’s connectivity, Arshad concluded.
