Amid growing concerns over recent internet disruptions nationwide, Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, has denied allegations that the government is intentionally slowing down or restricting internet access. The minister attributed the slowdown to increased usage of virtual private networks (VPNs) by users attempting to bypass local networks, which she said put additional strain on the system.
In a press conference on August 18, Minister Khawaja dismissed the reports, stating that the government neither reduced internet speeds nor implemented any shutdowns. The minister explained that the surge in VPN usage, primarily to bypass Content Delivery Networks (CDNs) and access restricted services, has significantly strained the network infrastructure, leading to slower internet speeds.
“The use of VPNs disrupts the normal flow of internet traffic, causing latency and bandwidth issues,” Khawaja said. She also mentioned that efforts were underway to resolve these issues and prevent further disruptions.
The minister’s remarks come in the wake of significant connectivity issues reported by users, including difficulties downloading media on WhatsApp via mobile data and reduced internet speeds overall.
Minister Khawaja assured the public that the government is committed to resolving the issue and improving digital infrastructure. She stated that the problem has been addressed and highlighted the government’s efforts, including consultations with technical experts, ISPs, and telecom companies. Khawaja announced that a follow-up meeting with the PTA, ISPs, and telecom companies is scheduled for next week to ensure such issues do not recur.
Khawaja urged the public to exercise caution when discussing Pakistan online, emphasizing that reckless statements could negatively impact the industry, deter investment, and harm freelancers. “We have to talk about Pakistan very responsibly,” she stressed, adding that the perception of instability can cause more harm to individuals, particularly freelancers, than to the government itself.
In a statement issued earlier, the Pakistan Press Foundation (PPF) expressed alarm over the unexplained internet disruptions, highlighting concerns about the lack of transparency and accountability in managing digital media and the internet in Pakistan. PPF emphasized that access to the internet is a fundamental Constitutional right for providing citizens with access to information.
The Wireless and Internet Service Providers Association of Pakistan (WISPAP) also raised concerns, stating that the connectivity issues resulted from the government’s enhanced security and surveillance measures. According to WISPAP, internet speeds were down by 30-40 percent, severely impacting businesses and individuals who rely on fast and reliable connectivity.
Addressing these concerns, Minister Khawaja assured the public that the government is committed to improving digital infrastructure, announcing plans for a 5G spectrum auction early next year and laying four new internet cables to enhance bandwidth.
However, the minister did not directly address reports about the government testing a national firewall, which has been widely blamed for the disruptions. The Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA) condemned the implementation of the firewall, warning that it could have devastating consequences for the country’s burgeoning tech sector, with potential financial losses estimated at $300 million.
In response to these disruptions, several petitions have been filed in courts, with the Lahore High Court summoning representatives from the federal government, the information ministry, and the PTA to explain the situation. Additionally, journalist Hamid Mir has filed a petition in the Islamabad High Court challenging the installation of the firewall.
