Editorial
For 240 million Pakistanis, simple online tasks like sending a WhatsApp message or browsing websites have turned into daily struggles. As internet speeds continue to be throttled, Pakistan’s digital ecosystem and economy face a looming crisis. With the country ranking 198th globally in internet speed, trailing behind even conflict-ridden Palestine and Libya, the government’s silence on the matter is not just disappointing—it signals a deeper governance failure.
This issue is not just a nuisance; it’s an economic disaster. Telecom operators estimate losses of Rs 12 billion annually due to slow internet, with cumulative damages projected to exceed $300 million. The IT sector, crucial for Pakistan’s $3.2 billion exports, risks stagnation, undermining the government’s ambitious $15 billion export target. Similarly, the $5 billion e-commerce industry and freelancers, who are vital to the economy, face severe disruptions, losing access to platforms that sustain their livelihoods.
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Beyond financial losses, internet throttling erodes Pakistan’s global competitiveness. With IT firms relocating abroad and tech talent leaving the country, Pakistan faces the potential collapse of its emerging tech industry. Furthermore, these digital restrictions infringe upon basic digital rights. As the world embraces the Fourth Industrial Revolution, Pakistan’s citizens are deprived of access to essential services like education, communication, and information, thus limiting their freedom of expression.
The government’s failure to address these issues is not only stalling economic growth but also restricting innovation and entrepreneurship. If Pakistan fails to prioritize reliable internet access, it risks being left behind in the global digital race. Immediate, decisive action is crucial to restore internet speeds, enhance infrastructure, and support Pakistan’s digital future. Without these steps, the country’s prospects for economic and technological growth are at risk.
