• September 26, 2024
• Information Technology
• Web Desk

Minister of State for Information Technology Shaza Fatima Khawaja attributed the country’s slow internet speeds to outdated infrastructure and limited spectrum availability, signaling that these are the key challenges affecting internet performance nationwide.

During a press briefing on September 25, Khawaja outlined the need for significant improvements in both areas. She noted that Pakistan’s telecom sector has struggled to expand the available spectrum necessary for fast and reliable internet connectivity. She emphasized that the current spectrum allocation is inadequate for modern internet demands, leading to network congestion and reduced speeds for users nationwide.

The IT minister explained that the situation is further exacerbated by poor infrastructure, particularly in rural areas where outdated equipment and insufficient investment have hampered the expansion of broadband services. Khawaja pointed out that lacking fiber optic networks and other critical infrastructure has stifled efforts to upgrade internet services to global standards.

Slow internet speeds have become increasingly prominent, with businesses and consumers raising concerns over the impact on daily operations and access to digital resources. Khawaja assured the public that the government is actively working on solutions, including plans to auction additional spectrum shortly and attract investments to improve the country’s telecom infrastructure.

The minister also highlighted that the recent dip in internet speeds has drawn attention to the urgency of reforms in the telecom sector, urging stakeholders to collaborate in addressing these longstanding issues.

Previously, Khawaja confirmed that the government was upgrading its “web management system” to cope with cyber security threats. In a press conference on August 18, she 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.

PTA Chairman retired Maj Gen Hafeezur Rehman had also dismissed the firewall allegations, stating that the current issues were due to the ongoing upgrade of the government’s web management system, not a firewall installation.