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Govt Orders PTA Probe After Nationwide Internet Slowdown Sparks Business Concerns
Citizens across Pakistan are facing internet connectivity issues, and the government has directed PTA to investigate. Businesses report major slowdowns, with concerns about potential financial losses and service disruptions.
ND
by News Desk
2024-08-15
Govt Orders PTA Probe After Nationwide Internet Slowdown Sparks Business Concerns

Government Orders Investigation as Internet Connectivity Issues Disrupt Businesses Nationwide

In response to widespread internet connectivity issues reported by citizens across Pakistan, the government has instructed the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and other relevant bodies to submit a detailed report on the situation. Minister of State for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, confirmed on Thursday that the government is taking the matter seriously following claims from the business community that the recent internet slowdown has led to significant losses.

Businesses and internet service providers have alleged that the government's increased monitoring of internet traffic has caused a 30-40% decline in internet speeds nationwide. The Wireless and Internet Service Providers Association of Pakistan (Wispap) warned that the ongoing disruption has pushed some businesses to consider relocating operations abroad.

Minister Khawaja stated that PTA and related institutions have been tasked with reporting on the data traffic impact over the past two weeks. She also addressed concerns over the government's role, noting that the setup of a firewall for cybersecurity purposes had been exaggerated, adding that it is a standard practice worldwide.

Despite PTA's denial of any connection between the issues and the firewall, users of major platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp have reported slowdowns. The Senate's standing committee on IT has directed the ministry to resolve the issue within two weeks and report on the financial losses incurred due to the disruptions.
Tagged:

PakistanBusiness

CyberSecurity

InternetSlowdown

PTAReport

ITMinistry

DigitalPakistan
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