MM News

A nationwide slowdown of internet services has severely impacted businesses, freelancers, and institutions that rely on the internet for connectivity. While the federal government remains silent on the issue, internet service providers on Wednesday blamed the disruption on the government’s intensified efforts to monitor internet traffic.

Major online platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp have been hit hard, with users experiencing slowdowns and difficulties accessing messaging and social media applications.

According to a statement from the Wireless and Internet Service Providers Association of Pakistan (WISPAP), the country’s digital economy has been severely crippled by the government’s push for increased security and surveillance.

“Businesses and individuals who depend on fast, reliable connectivity are facing chaos due to a 30 to 40% reduction in internet speeds over the past few weeks,” the group stated. They highlighted that those in electronic-related enterprises, call centers, e-commerce, and the online workforce have been particularly hard hit.

“These sectors, which form the backbone of Pakistan’s growing digital economy, are now struggling to maintain operations, with the slowdown threatening their very survival,” WISPAP warned, adding that the situation has become so critical that many businesses are considering relocating their operations to countries where internet services remain stable.