Concerns about internet slowdown and the potential implementation of a firewall in Pakistan were brought to light in the National Assembly, where Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) member Rai Hasan Nawaz Kharl criticized the government for allegedly fearing the youth, which he claimed was the reason behind the proposed firewall.
In response, Minister of Law Azam Nazeer Tarar did not confirm the implementation of a firewall but assured that efforts were underway to enhance internet services across the country. According to a report by Express News, Tarar stated, “The government is working to upgrade the entire IT system, and the internet slowdown issue will be resolved within the next five to six days.”
Tarar also mentioned that the Minister for IT, who was expected to provide a more detailed response, had to leave for Lahore due to his mother’s illness. He acknowledged that laying down fibre optic networks remains a significant challenge but assured that the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) had already addressed many of the circulating rumors about the firewall. “We will see good speed internet in the coming days,” he added.
Meanwhile, the PTA has provided VPN services to companies and freelancers affected by the ongoing internet speed issues. During the National Assembly session, the Ministry of Information Technology presented details about registered VPNs with the PTA.
According to documents submitted by the ministry, a total of 20,500 VPNs have been registered for 1,422 companies across Pakistan. This includes 1,286 VPNs for companies, 136 for freelancers, and additional VPNs registered under the Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA). The registered VPNs cater to nearly 20,000 company users and 180 freelancers.
In a written statement, the Ministry of IT clarified that the PTA is working closely with the ministry and other stakeholders on VPN registration and has ensured that companies and freelancers have access to VPN facilities amidst the current internet issues.
The government’s commitment to improving IT infrastructure and resolving internet speed concerns is clear, with assurances that further enhancements will be visible in the near future.
