Access to reliable and high-speed internet is a fundamental requirement in today’s digital age. In Pakistan, however, internet infrastructure continues to fall short of expectations. The recent briefing by Minister of State for IT and Telecom, Shaza Fatima, to the National Assembly Standing Committee on IT & Telecom highlighted ongoing efforts to address these challenges.
Negotiations with Starlink for Enhanced Connectivity
To bridge the digital divide, the government is negotiating with Starlink, a global satellite internet provider. The goal is to improve internet accessibility, especially in remote and underserved areas. This move could revolutionize digital connectivity in Pakistan, making it more inclusive and accessible.
READ: Cybercrime Amendment Bill: A Transformation of Pakistan’s Digital Landscape
Acknowledging Infrastructure Limitations
Minister Shaza Fatima admitted that Pakistan’s internet infrastructure is subpar, with even the best services failing to meet user expectations. She addressed public frustration regarding frequent internet outages, emphasizing that billions of dollars in IT exports could still be achieved despite these challenges. This remark, however, was met with skepticism by committee members and industry representatives.
Clarifying Monitoring and Surveillance Policies
The minister reaffirmed the government’s role in monitoring internet usage where necessary but drew a clear line against unwarranted surveillance. Her statement aims to reassure citizens and businesses concerned about privacy violations, emphasizing transparency in monitoring practices.
READ: FREELANCING IN PAKISTAN ON THE BRINK OF COLLAPSE! Internet Crisis That’s Threatening Livelihoods!
Debunking Financial Loss Claims
During the briefing, the minister refuted claims made by the Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA) regarding an $8 billion loss due to internet disruptions. She urged stakeholders to avoid spreading misinformation and called for constructive dialogue to address these issues.
Committee Members’ Concerns
The session turned tense as committee members voiced their frustrations. Freelancers and small businesses, heavily reliant on uninterrupted internet access, were highlighted as among the hardest hit during outages. Suggestions were made to hold a joint press conference with industry representatives to align narratives and work toward common goals.
Chairman’s Call for Consistency
Chairman Syed Aminul Haq reiterated the need for consistent internet services. He stressed that the internet should never be shut down and urged the government to implement a permanent solution to prevent future disruptions.
READ: Don’t Be Fooled! 8 Essential Tips to Spot Fake News Videos
Conclusion
The government’s engagement with Starlink and its acknowledgment of internet infrastructure challenges mark a step in the right direction. However, addressing the concerns of stakeholders—including freelancers, businesses, and everyday users—requires collaborative efforts and transparent communication. A permanent solution ensuring reliable and uninterrupted internet access is essential for Pakistan to achieve its digital ambitions.
ALSO READ: Pakistan’s Internet Speed Ranking: A Wake-Up Call for Digital Infrastructure
