Nationwide Internet Services Likely to Remain Slow Until October: PTA
Understanding the Impacts of Slow Internet on Pakistan's Economy and Digital Landscape

Submarine Cable Damage: The Root Cause of Slow Internet
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) recently announced that nationwide internet services are likely to remain slow until “early October” due to ongoing repairs on a damaged submarine cable. Submarine cables are critical infrastructure that facilitate high-speed connections between continents. When these cables are damaged, the impact is felt globally, affecting data transmission speeds and internet connectivity. In Pakistan, the current slowdown is attributed to multiple faults in one of these crucial cables, causing significant disruption to connectivity services across the country. This has led to a noticeable decline in connection speeds, severely impacting users’ ability to browse efficiently and send media via platforms like WhatsApp.
The Challenges of Repairing Submarine Cables
Repairing damaged submarine cables is a complex and time-consuming process. These cables lie on the ocean floor, often thousands of meters deep, and are vulnerable to various threats, such as underwater earthquakes, fishing activities, and even ship anchors. To repair a damaged cable, specialized ships must locate the fault, bring the cable to the surface, repair it, and then carefully lay it back on the seabed. This process can take weeks or even months, depending on the extent of the damage and the location of the fault. In Pakistan’s case, the repair efforts are expected to continue until early October, during which time internet users will continue to experience slower speeds.
Impact on Daily Life and Communication
The slowdown in internet speeds has significantly affected daily life and communication across Pakistan. Internet users have reported difficulties in accessing social media platforms, streaming videos, and conducting online transactions. For many, the most noticeable impact has been on messaging apps like WhatsApp, where sending and receiving media files such as photos, videos, and voice notes has become frustratingly slow. This has led to a growing sense of frustration among the general public, who rely on fast connectivity for communication, entertainment, and work. Moreover, students and professionals working from home have also been hit hard, as the slow internet has disrupted online learning and remote work, reducing productivity.
Economic Implications of the Internet Slowdown
The slow internet is not just an inconvenience; it has substantial economic implications as well. Pakistan’s business community has expressed concerns about potential economic losses resulting from the prolonged internet slowdown. Many businesses, especially those in the digital economy and telecommunications sector, rely heavily on fast and reliable connectivity to operate efficiently. Multinational companies with operations in Pakistan may also face challenges, as slow internet speeds can disrupt communication with global partners and clients, affecting overall business performance. The e-commerce sector, which has seen significant growth in recent years, could also suffer setbacks as online shoppers face delays and disruptions, leading to potential revenue losses.
Potential Impact on Multinational Companies
Multinational companies with operations in Pakistan are particularly vulnerable to the effects of the internet slowdown. These companies depend on seamless internet connectivity to communicate with their global offices, manage supply chains, and conduct financial transactions. A prolonged internet slowdown could disrupt these operations, leading to delays in project timelines and increased operational costs. For sectors like finance, technology, and telecommunications, which rely heavily on digital communication, the slowdown could pose serious challenges, potentially affecting investor confidence and business continuity.
The Digital Economy and the Future of Online Services
The internet slowdown also raises concerns about the future of Pakistan’s digital economy. As the country pushes for greater digitalization and e-governance, reliable internet connectivity becomes increasingly vital. The slowdown highlights the vulnerabilities in the existing infrastructure and the need for more robust and redundant systems to ensure continuity of service. It also brings into question the preparedness of the digital economy to handle such disruptions and the steps needed to mitigate future risks. For businesses and consumers alike, the current situation serves as a reminder of the importance of having contingency plans and alternative communication channels in place.
Government’s Role and Public Perception
While the government has denied any deliberate throttling of internet services, public perception remains mixed. Some believe that the slowdown is part of broader efforts to control information flow, while others accept the official explanation of submarine cable damage. The government’s communication strategy has been crucial in managing public expectations, but more transparency and frequent updates could help alleviate concerns and build trust. The situation also highlights the need for the government to invest in more resilient digital infrastructure to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Preparing for Future Disruptions
The current internet slowdown is a wake-up call for both the government and the private sector to invest in better infrastructure and disaster recovery plans. Diversifying internet routes and increasing the number of undersea cables can help mitigate the impact of any single cable failure. Additionally, fostering partnerships with international telecom providers can ensure quicker response times and access to more resources for repairs. The government and telecom companies must also work together to educate the public about the causes of internet disruptions and the steps being taken to resolve them, which can help manage expectations and reduce frustration.
Conclusion: Looking Ahead
As the repairs on the damaged submarine cables continue, it is essential for Pakistan to take lessons from this incident to strengthen its digital infrastructure. Ensuring faster internet recovery, minimizing economic disruptions, and maintaining public trust should be priorities moving forward. While the internet slowdown may persist until October, proactive measures can help mitigate similar challenges in the future and pave the way for a more resilient digital ecosystem in Pakistan.