WISPAP Chairman Shahzad Arshad Voices Concern Over Internet Disruptions Impacting Pakistan’s Economy and Society
Shahzad Arshad, Chairman of the Wireless & Internet Service Providers Association of Pakistan (WISPAP), has raised serious concerns regarding the ongoing internet disruptions in the country, highlighting the detrimental effects on Pakistan’s economy and society.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Arshad emphasized the challenges faced by Pakistan’s citizens over the past several weeks due to persistent slow internet speeds across both mobile and wireline networks. “These disruptions have had a significant impact on businesses, education, freelancers, and essential service providers,” Arshad stated. “As the Chairman of WISPAP, I am deeply concerned about the prolonged nature of these issues and the adverse effects they are having on our economy and society.”
The government has attributed the slowdown to increased VPN usage among the public. However, this explanation has left many stakeholders seeking further clarification. While the government has assured the public that no firewall or filtration systems have been installed at the international gateways, concerns remain. Arshad stressed the need for transparency in addressing these issues. “We must work together to fully understand and resolve these disruptions,” he added.
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WISPAP acknowledges the government’s responsibility to address security concerns but recommends the establishment of a whitelist for essential websites if filtration systems are necessary. This whitelist should include freelancing platforms, e-marketplaces, and other digital services that allow Pakistanis to work and contribute to the global economy. “This approach would support our digital workforce while addressing broader security objectives,” the statement noted.
Arshad also highlighted the widespread impact of the current internet situation. Local industries, particularly freelancers who rely on stable internet connections to work with international clients on platforms like Fiverr, are facing significant challenges. Many are struggling financially as their ability to earn a livelihood is compromised. Students, who have increasingly relied on online education since the COVID-19 pandemic, are also experiencing disruptions to their studies. Additionally, essential service providers, such as those in food delivery, ride-hailing, and cargo services, are encountering operational challenges due to unreliable internet access. Despite some recent improvements in internet speeds, the situation remains unresolved.
“In this digital era, where Pakistan aspires to lead in digital literacy and technological innovation, consistent and reliable internet access is crucial for our progress,” Arshad added. “We urge the government to prioritize resolving these issues to ensure Pakistan remains on track to becoming a leading digital economy. WISPAP is committed to collaborating with all stakeholders to achieve this goal.”
WISPAP represents the collective interests of Pakistan’s internet and wireless service providers. The association’s mission is to advocate for policies that promote the growth and development of the internet sector in Pakistan, ensuring every citizen has access to reliable and high-quality digital services.
