Internet Disruptions Impact Users Across Major Cities in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: Internet services in Pakistan have recently faced significant disruptions, affecting users in multiple cities. This situation has led to slow internet speeds, making it difficult for individuals to access various online platforms and services. Many users have reported challenges with browsing the internet and uploading or downloading media, including images, videos, and voice notes. This disruption is particularly concerning for those engaged in online businesses, as they rely heavily on a stable internet connection to conduct their operations smoothly.

The issue was highlighted by Downdetector, which recorded a noticeable spike in outages for popular applications such as WhatsApp, Gmail, Instagram, and TikTok around 11 AM on December 1, 2024. These outages have significantly impacted users who depend on these platforms for communication, work, and social interaction. While internet disruptions are not a new phenomenon in Pakistan, the frequency of these outages has been on the rise in recent months, raising concerns among the public.

Just last week, internet and mobile services were temporarily interrupted in Islamabad due to a political protest organized by the opposition party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). Furthermore, the government has been conducting multiple tests of its internet firewall this year, which have previously resulted in slowed internet speeds and digital disruptions. As of now, the exact cause of the current slowdown in internet speed remains unclear, and authorities have yet to provide an official explanation for the ongoing issues.

In response to the situation, Pakistan Telecommunications Authority (PTA) Chairman Major General (retired) Hafeezul Rehman confirmed that the government has approved an extension for the deadline to register virtual private networks (VPNs). However, no new date has been announced. The PTA chief reassured users that VPNs would not be blocked on November 30, as initially planned. He stated, “VPNs will not be blocked today,” addressing the concerns of many users. Nevertheless, he did not specify a new deadline for registration, adding, “How long VPN registration is extended is a matter for the interior ministry.” This extension follows a request from Wispap, which urged the interior ministry to extend the deadline to “facilitate compliance.”

The ongoing internet disruptions in Pakistan highlight the critical need for a reliable digital infrastructure, especially as more people turn to online platforms for work and communication. As the government navigates these challenges, it is essential for users to stay informed and prepared for potential disruptions. The situation serves as a reminder of the importance of digital connectivity in today’s world, where many aspects of life depend on a stable internet connection.