Slow Internet Speeds Disrupt Daily Life in Karachi and Parts of Pakistan
Slow Internet Speeds Disrupt Daily Life in Karachi: Recent reports indicate that WiFi and mobile data services are experiencing significant slowdowns. This deterioration in service quality makes it challenging for users to send or receive media files effectively.
Internet connectivity issues persisted throughout the country on Monday, with particular severity reported in the port city. Many users encountered challenges while trying to browse, download, and share media online.
Specifically, users of Meta’s instant messaging app, WhatsApp, faced difficulties in sending and receiving media files, including images, videos, and voice notes. Both WiFi and mobile data services experienced significant slowdowns during this time.
These connectivity problems were corroborated by Downdetector.com, which indicated a spike in WhatsApp outages around 9 AM on Monday, marking the second consecutive day of interruptions for users.
Internet Disruptions in Sindh’s Provincial Capital Cause Frustration Among Residents and Professionals
In the provincial capital of Sindh, notably hard-hit areas include Saddar, Liaquatabad, FB Area, and Gulistan-e-Jauhar, as users have reported experiencing extended delays in transmitting audio, video, and image files.
Many residents from various neighborhoods expressed frustration over unreliable internet services. This issue particularly affects those working from home, freelancers, digital marketers, and students attending online classes, all of whom rely on consistent internet access.
However, no specific reason has come to light for today’s slowed internet speed.
In a conversation regarding the state of virtual private networks (VPN) in Pakistan in Geo News’ program ‘Geo Pakistan’, Wireless and Internet Service Providers Association of Pakistan (Wispap) Chairman Shahzad Arshad highlighted that the VPNs were “a need of (internet) users”.
He stated that he requested the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to extend the registration time for VPNs, emphasizing that problems with internet speed appeared to remain unresolved.
Frequent Internet Issues in Pakistan Impact Daily Life and Economy
“ISPs have yet to provide a solution for the slow internet speeds,” said Arshad, emphasizing the public’s frustrations regarding social media applications not functioning properly over the past few days. Internet outages are fairly common in Pakistan, as the nation has been experiencing intermittent disruptions and access issues for several months due to various factors.
Recently, internet and mobile services were interrupted following the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) “do-or-die” protest in Islamabad. Additionally, the current government has conducted several tests of its internet firewall, with the initial two trials taking place in July and August, respectively.
On both occasions, the tests caused a decrease in internet speeds and affected digital platforms. IT professionals assert that the dire condition of the internet in Pakistan is causing the economy to lose billions of rupees each day.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Pakistan continues to face recurring internet disruptions that significantly impact daily life, professional activities, and the economy. Despite public frustration and the critical need for reliable connectivity, no concrete solutions have been provided by ISPs or authorities. These ongoing issues highlight the urgent need for improved infrastructure and a more consistent approach to maintaining internet services nationwide.