KARACHI: The Wireless Internet Service Providers Association of Pakistan (Wispap) has voiced grave concerns over the future of digital services in the country amidst the slow ongoing connectivity issues.
Wispap Chairperson Shahzad Arshad highlighted the growing frustration among millions of Pakistanis, stating, “Pakistan’s digital heartbeat is faltering, leaving millions frustrated and disconnected.” Everyday digital routines are being disrupted, with apps stalling, VPNs becoming critical workarounds, and widespread uncertainty clouding internet access.
Arshad questioned whether these challenges stem from security concerns or more systemic issues. “While officials stay tight-lipped, the whispers tell a different story,” he said, highlighting the need for greater transparency.
The fallout from these disruptions is significant. Freelancers, who contribute $400 million annually to the national exchequer, are struggling to stay online, traders face delayed payments, researchers encounter roadblocks, and students lose access to essential learning resources. “It is not just an inconvenience,” Arshad asserted, “it is a full-blown disruption affecting lives and livelihoods.”
While acknowledging the necessity of maintaining control over the digital sphere, Arshad warned against the heavy toll these disruptions are exacting. “Connectivity disruptions do not just slow us down; they shake the very foundation of an already fragile ecosystem,” he said. He added that Pakistan’s economy is ill-equipped to withstand such strain. “Other countries might weather these measures because their economies can take the hit. For us, it is a fast track to disconnection, not progress.”
Another pressing issue is the restrictive approach to VPN usage. Describing the situation, Arshad said, “The system is like building walls without doors. Legitimate users are forced underground, while the real vulnerabilities remain unchecked.”
Read More: Karachi Mayor orders probe into elephant Sonia’s sudden death at Safari Park
