Telecom operators write to PM over internet crisis

ISLAMABAD: Telecom operators have sent a letter to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, urging immediate action to address the ongoing internet slowdown crisis.

They warn that the telecom sector could face an annual loss of Rs12 billion. According to the letter from the Telecom Operators Association, the slowdown in internet speed has resulted in a daily decrease of 6,400 terabytes in internet traffic nationwide. This slowdown is creating difficulties across various sectors, including commerce, healthcare, education, finance, banking, and public sector operations, leading to increased financial pressure on the telecom sector. This could result in a loss of over Rs3 billion annually to the national treasury due to reduced telecom sector revenue.

It said Pakistan, home to the world’s fourth-largest freelance workforce, relies heavily on these freelancers, who contribute significantly to IT exports. The internet slowdown has severely impacted these freelancers and poses a threat to IT exports. Therefore, it is crucial to restore internet speed as soon as possible.

The letter points out that many in the working class depend on the internet for communication with clients and others, and the lower-middle class will face adverse financial effects due to the slowdown.

The letter calls on the prime minister to promptly identify and address any technical issues causing the slowdown, emphasizing that delays in resolving this issue will have economic repercussions for the country.