Rehman stated that the marine cable is expected to be repaired by August 27. He explained that one of the seven fiber optic cables serving Pakistan is malfunctioning, and the issue is anticipated to be resolved by the end of the month. The PTA chairman also noted that the use of VPNs has exacerbated local internet outages in Pakistan.
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Rehman informed the committee that a web management system, in place since 2006, and a firewall system, approved in March 2019 with upgrades starting that same year, are operational. The system is known by various names but is referred to as the web management system by the PTA.
Syed Amin-ul-Haq questioned why internet services were being affected and whether the firewall was contributing to the problem. He suggested that the PTA should keep the media informed to update the public.
In response, Rehman indicated that the federal government had mandated the installation of a firewall, and the PTA is in the process of implementing it. He also mentioned that it is unclear if the firewall is causing the system slowdown, and the federal government could provide further clarification on this issue. Rehman dismissed rumors about blocking VPNs, stating that they cannot be shut down.
The committee decided to request a technical briefing from the Secretary of IT regarding the firewall at their next meeting.
