Telecom operators in Pakistan have urgently reached out to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, raising serious concerns about an ongoing internet slowdown that could lead to significant financial losses.
The Telecom Operators Association has warned that the country is facing an alarming crisis, with internet traffic dropping by 6,400 terabytes daily, which could result in an annual loss of Rs12 billion.
This slowdown is not just a minor inconvenience but is severely affecting various sectors, including commerce, healthcare, and education.
The reduction in internet speed is also expected to cost the national treasury over Rs3 billion in lost revenue. Given Pakistan’s large freelance workforce and its growing dependence on IT exports, the situation is dire.
The internet slowdown is impacting businesses across the country, hindering their ability to operate efficiently and meet client demands. It’s also affecting educational institutions that rely on online learning platforms and healthcare services that depend on fast internet for patient care.
The broader economic implications are concerning, as this issue could slow down the country’s progress in the digital economy.
Telecom operators are urging the government to take immediate action to resolve the internet speed issues.
They stress the importance of restoring reliable internet connectivity to avoid further economic damage and to ensure that Pakistan remains competitive in the global IT market.
The operators believe that without prompt intervention, the slowdown could have long-term negative effects on the country’s economy and its digital future.
