Pakistan official urges internet use for 'important matters only' amid slowdowns
Pakistan's Internet Slowdown: Syed Sajid Mehdi Suggests Limited Usage
In Islamabad, Pakistan's Parliamentary Secretary for the Cabinet Division, Syed Sajid Mehdi, has advised citizens to limit their internet use to essential matters only. This suggestion comes in response to widespread frustration over slow internet speeds across the country.
Connectivity Issues in Pakistan
Pakistan has been experiencing persistent internet connectivity problems, including slow download speeds on platforms like WhatsApp and frequent outages. These issues have raised concerns among IT professionals about the potential impact on the country's technology sector.
Financial Implications
The Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA) Chairman, Sajjad Mustafa Syed, highlighted the financial consequences of these disruptions. He noted that even a one-hour slowdown could damage the reputation of Pakistan's IT sector, especially in export-driven businesses, with losses exceeding USD 1 million per hour.
Reasons for Slowdowns
During a DawnNews TV program, Mehdi compared the internet infrastructure to an overcrowded road, explaining that the slowdowns are due to Pakistan's underdeveloped fibre-optic network, which has only 15% of the capacity available in India. He assured that efforts are underway to expand the network and resolve the issue within three to four months.
Population Growth and Internet Usage
Mehdi acknowledged that population growth contributes to internet slowdowns, likening it to increased traffic on roads. He emphasized the importance of reducing unnecessary internet usage to improve performance.
Government Measures
Reports suggest that the Pakistan government is testing a firewall system to monitor online platforms, which may be linked to the ongoing slowdowns. Mehdi dismissed claims of significant financial losses due to the slowdowns, stating that no official complaints have been filed.
Doubts Revealed
Pakistan
Pakistan is a country located in South Asia, sharing borders with India, Afghanistan, Iran, and China. It has a rich history and diverse culture.
Internet Slowdown
Internet slowdown means that the internet is working slower than usual, making it difficult to load websites, watch videos, or use online services quickly.
Syed Sajid Mehdi
Syed Sajid Mehdi is a government official in Pakistan, serving as the Parliamentary Secretary. He is involved in making decisions and giving advice on various issues, including internet usage.
Parliamentary Secretary
A Parliamentary Secretary is a member of the government who assists ministers in their duties, often focusing on specific areas like technology or education.
Connectivity Issues
Connectivity issues refer to problems with connecting to the internet or maintaining a stable and fast internet connection.
IT Sector
The IT sector includes companies and professionals who work with technology, such as software development, computer services, and internet services.
Infrastructure
Infrastructure refers to the basic physical systems and structures needed for a country to function, like roads, bridges, and in this case, internet cables and networks.
Firewall System
A firewall system is a security tool used to protect computers and networks from unauthorized access, often by controlling the data that can enter or leave a network.
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