Extent of Disruptions
On Friday, widespread internet outages caused significant disruptions across various cities, impacting major online platforms and leaving social media users grappling with connectivity issues.
Speculations and Denials
Speculation emerged that the outages might be linked to a new firewall installation by the government aimed at monitoring internet use. However, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) denied these claims, stating that the firewall was not the cause of the disruptions.
PTA’s Response
A senior PTA official mentioned that although the outages had generated numerous queries, no official complaints had been received yet. The PTA has not provided a clear explanation for the internet slowdown, and users remain anxious for updates.
Impact on Social Media Platforms
Major platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp experienced severe slowdowns. Users reported difficulties in accessing these services, with WhatsApp being notably problematic, including issues with uploading and downloading content.
User Frustration
Millions of people, including those using online platforms for business and daily communication, have expressed frustration over the disruptions. An internet service provider (ISP) noted continuous service issues since the previous week and highlighted that the interruptions have significantly affected users’ ability to perform routine tasks.
Broader Implications
The outages underscored the critical role of stable internet services in modern communication and daily life. The incident highlighted the country’s deep reliance on digital platforms for business and personal interactions.