Is PTI Government Behind the Slow Internet in Pakistan?

Although the whole nation is suffering from slow internet, Minister of State for Information Technology, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, confirmed in the National Assembly that Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) and social media platforms, including WhatsApp, are fully operational in Pakistan. Responding to concerns raised during the question hour, she assured that the government is actively working to improve the overall internet experience in the country.
Slow Internet in Pakistan: A Legacy of Neglect
Addressing questions about Pakistanโs slow internet speeds, Shaza Khawaja pointed to the previous governmentโs failure to invest in the information technology (IT) sector. She explained that outdated infrastructure had not been upgraded, contributing to poor connectivity. However, she highlighted progress, such as the recent fibre-optic connection to China, aimed at strengthening internet infrastructure and ensuring better reliability.
Concerns Over IT Business Migration
During the session, parliamentarian Shazia Marri expressed frustration over the impact of slow internet on IT-related businesses. She noted that entrepreneurs are moving their operations abroad due to unreliable internet and VPN accessibility. In response, Shaza Fatima Khawaja shared positive developments, including a 28% increase in IT and computer technology exports in the first six months of the current fiscal year, signalling growth despite the challenges.
Improvements in Internet Rankings
Recent updates from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) show some progress in internet services. Fixed-line internet speeds have improved, with Pakistan climbing two spots to 139th in global rankings. Similarly, mobile network performance has seen an uptick, moving up three positions to rank 97th worldwide. However, PTA also reported disruptions due to WhatsApp shifting its server operations outside Pakistan, which briefly affected user experiences.
Satellite Internet Providers Eye Pakistan
Pakistanโs internet landscape could see a significant transformation with the potential entry of global satellite internet providers. Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology Limited (SSST), a Chinese space tech company, has officially registered in Pakistan and plans to launch a low-orbit satellite network, G60 Starlink. This network aims to provide high-speed satellite internet and compete with Elon Muskโs Starlink.
SSST has ambitious goals, targeting the deployment of 648 satellites by 2025 and a total of 15,000 satellites by 2030. The company expects to achieve global coverage by 2027, with over 1,000 satellites operational. Both SSST and Starlink have applied for licenses from the PTA, adhering to regulations requiring local registration.
Future of Internet in Pakistan
The future of the Internet in Pakistan appears promising, driven by infrastructure upgrades, government initiatives, and the entry of global satellite providers. With SSST and Starlink planning to introduce high-speed satellite connectivity, remote areas of Pakistan could soon experience reliable internet access.
Additionally, the governmentโs focus on enhancing IT exports and fostering digital transformation offers hope for sustained growth. To fully capitalize on these advancements, consistent investments in infrastructure, regulatory reforms, and support for tech entrepreneurs will be essential. If these steps are successfully implemented, Pakistan could emerge as a significant player in the global digital economy.
See Also: IT & Telecom FDI Soared Under Imran Khan, Now in Decline: WEF Report
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