The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has alerted users about possible internet disruptions following a fault in the AAE-1 submarine cable near Qatar, a major link for international internet traffic.
AAE-1 Cable Fault Causes Connectivity Issues
The fault in the AAE-1 submarine cable may affect internet speeds and connectivity across Pakistan. PTA is monitoring the issue closely and is working to resolve the problem.
| Affected Cable | AAE-1 Submarine Cable |
|---|---|
| Location | Near Qatar |
| Impact | Internet Speed Disruptions |
| Resolution | Teams Working to Fix Fault |
Ongoing Internet Problems in Pakistan
Frequent internet disruptions and slow speeds have been a concern for Pakistani users, with many reporting consistent connectivity issues. The situation has been compounded by the ongoing ban on social media platform X (formerly Twitter).
| Internet Issues in Pakistan | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Internet Speed Disruptions | High |
| Social Media Bans | Ongoing |
Impact on Pakistan’s IT Sector
The disruptions have also resulted in significant losses for Pakistan’s IT industry, aff ecting businesses that rely on stable internet connections. The National Assembly’s IT committee is addressing the economic impact.
| Financial Impact | Estimated Losses |
|---|---|
| IT Industry | $8 Billion |
| Target IT Export | $15 Billion |
Debate on VPN Ban and Internet Speed
Lawmakers have debated the possible banning of VPNs and the slow internet speeds affecting users. Opposition leader Omar Ayub opposed the registration of VPNs, calling for further investigation into the matter.
| Debate Topics | Key Points |
|---|---|
| VPN Ban | Opposition to VPN registration |
| Internet Speed | Calls for further investigation |
PPP Lawmakers Demand Action
PPP lawmakers, including Sharmila Faruqui, have raised concerns about the financial impact of the internet issues, urging the interior ministry to brief parliament on the ongoing situation.
| Lawmaker Concern | Action Suggested |
|---|---|
| Sharmila Faruqui | Briefing from the Interior Ministry |
| Syed Ali Gillani | Investigation into internet issues |
$8 Billion Losses to IT Industry
The Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA) has reported an $8 billion loss due to internet disruptions. Minister Shaza Fatima stressed the importance of improving internet infrastructure to meet the government’s $15 billion IT export target.
| Industry Impact | Losses Due to Disruption |
|---|---|
| P@SHA | $8 Billion |
| Government Goal | $15 Billion IT Exports |
Urgent Call for Internet Improvements
Syed Amin-ul-Haque, Chairman of the IT Committee, emphasized the need for urgent government action to prevent further disruptions and ensure stable internet services across the country.
| Recommendation | Action Required |
|---|---|
| Improve Infrastructure | Prevent Future Disruptions |
In-Camera Briefing Scheduled
The IT Committee has scheduled an in-camera briefing with the interior ministry and P@SHA representatives to discuss the issue and potential solutions.
| Meeting Details | Date |
|---|---|
| In-Camera Briefing | Next Session |
