- By: Kianat Saleem, Lahore
Pakistan is experiencing severe internet slowdowns, leaving millions struggling with essential daily tasks. The widespread disruptions have heavily impacted popular platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and WhatsApp, hindering both entertainment and professional activities. This has significantly disrupted remote work, online education, and digital businesses.
In response, many users have resorted to Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to maintain access. However, these attempts have often been thwarted by persistent outages, further exacerbating the issue. The IT Minister has linked these disruptions to cybersecurity concerns and directives from the Ministry of Interior aimed at safeguarding national security. While the government emphasizes the importance of such measures, the prolonged outages have sparked frustration among citizens.
Students and professionals, particularly those reliant on stable internet connections for e-learning and remote work, have reported substantial challenges. Online examinations, virtual meetings, and collaborative tasks are being delayed or rendered impossible, posing a setback to educational and economic progress.
Businesses, especially small enterprises that rely on digital marketing and e-commerce, are also facing financial losses due to decreased customer engagement and interrupted online transactions. In an era when connectivity is crucial for development, such disruptions threaten to widen the digital divide.
Public outcry continues to grow as citizens demand immediate restoration of services. Many argue that prolonged internet slowdowns undermine Pakistan’s aspirations of becoming a digitally advanced nation. Experts suggest balancing national security with technological stability to avoid recurring crises.
The situation underscores the critical role of internet infrastructure in modern society, highlighting the urgent need for resilient systems to ensure uninterrupted connectivity, even during emergencies. If unresolved, the ongoing disruptions could further harm Pakistan’s global competitiveness and domestic productivity.