Millions Lost as Internet Slowdown Impacts Entrepreneurs and Businesses

Pakistan-Pakistan’s IT sector is grappling with severe disruptions due to sluggish internet speeds, leading to significant setbacks for local businesses. Frequent internet outages have not only hampered productivity but also eroded trust among international clients.

Local IT companies, especially those in web development and digital marketing, are experiencing a sharp decline in efficiency. Tasks that once took 5 to 6 hours are now extending to 10 hours, doubling workload and operational costs. This inefficiency is forcing businesses to pay extra salaries and higher electricity bills, putting further strain on their resources.

The situation has become so dire that many international clients are moving their business to countries with more reliable internet services. Business owners in Faisalabad are calling on authorities to address the issue urgently to prevent further damage to the city’s growing IT sector.

A local entrepreneur expressed frustration, noting, “Our international clients are losing faith in us due to these internet problems. We’re struggling to meet deadlines and uphold our reputation. Clients are relocating to India and Bangladesh for better internet services.”

The IT community in Faisalabad is demanding immediate improvements to internet infrastructure, stressing that the future of the city’s digital economy hinges on it. Financial strain is evident as businesses face difficulties paying staff due to delayed payments. The community is urging prompt intervention to enhance internet services and prevent additional setbacks.

In Sukkur, students are also suffering from internet outages, which have persisted for a week. They face challenges with data searching and downloading, and the slow internet is causing widespread frustration among software developers, small business owners, students, and online gamers. Students have appealed to the government for a swift resolution.

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Students and gamers alike are struggling. Students are having trouble completing their homework, while gamers find it impossible to play their favorite games. “It feels like we’re going back to the Stone Age,” lamented one student.

Dr. Asif Ahmed Sheikh, Vice Chancellor of Sukkur IBA University, highlighted the critical role of internet service in education, noting that the ongoing issues are hampering the teaching process.

Meanwhile, the nationwide internet shutdown has been challenged in the Lahore High Court. The Registrar’s Office has scheduled a hearing with Justice Shakeel Ahmed Nadeem Sarwar presiding. The petition names the federal government and the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) as respondents, arguing that the internet and social media apps were shut down without prior notice or justification. The petitioner claims this shutdown infringes on fundamental rights and is seeking an order for the immediate restoration of internet services nationwide. The court is expected to consider the significant impact of the shutdown on the economy and daily life.

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