Lahore, August 20, 2024 – In a pivotal meeting chaired by Syed Aminul Haq, the National Assembly Standing Committee on Information Technology convened on August 19, 2024, to address pressing issues regarding recent internet disruptions, the suspension of social media services, and the future of 5G technology in Pakistan. Key figures in attendance included IT Minister Shaza Fatima, Chairman PTA Major General (Rtd) Hafeezur Rahman, and opposition leader Umar Ayub.
Key Discussions and Outcomes:
1. Internet Disruptions and Their Causes
The committee focused extensively on the recent disruptions to internet services across the country, which have been attributed to a fault in one of Pakistan’s seven submarine cables. Chairman PTA Major General Hafeezur Rahman reported that this fault has severely impacted bandwidth and connectivity. The issue is expected to be resolved by August 27, 2024. The disruptions have led many users to rely on VPNs, complicating network management and highlighting the need for transparent communication regarding the ongoing problems.
2. Economic Impact
The disruptions have resulted in substantial financial losses for the telecom sector, estimated at 300 million rupees over the past six days. This includes losses from reduced service availability and adverse effects on businesses and freelancers dependent on reliable internet access.
3. Committee’s Reactions and Actions
The committee expressed significant frustration over the non-attendance of key officials, including the PTCL President and SCO Chief General Omar Ahmad Shah. Syed Aminul Haq has demanded their presence at the next meeting to explain their absence and discuss the issues in greater detail. The committee also raised concerns about the legality of VPN usage during these disruptions and questioned whether the fault affected only Pakistan or had broader implications.
4. Future Directions and 5G Development
A major focus of the meeting was the expansion of 5G technology. The Standing Committee issued instructions for the Chairman PTA to prioritize the rollout of 5G services, aiming to extend connectivity to every village in Pakistan. Syed Aminul Haq emphasized the committee’s commitment to this goal and called for full cooperation from the Secretary IT and other relevant institutions. The Chairman PTA was urged to lead and expedite the 5G implementation plan.
5. Social Media App X
The committee addressed the ongoing ban on the social media app X, with Barrister Ali Gohar questioning when the ban would be lifted. Syed Aminul Haq stated that no committee member supports an outright ban, as it impedes development. He requested a detailed plan for lifting the ban at the next meeting. The Chairman PTA indicated that the internet slowdown is anticipated to end by August 27, with hopes for a resolution soon thereafter.
6. Public Communication and Transparency
Chairman Haq highlighted the need for improved communication with the public regarding internet service disruptions. He stressed the importance of clear and timely updates from the PTA about the nature of the disruptions and the measures being taken to address them.
7. Damage Assessment and Reporting
The committee has tasked the IT Ministry with preparing a comprehensive report on the financial losses suffered by the IT sector and the telecom industry. This report will be presented at the next committee meeting. Additionally, the committee requested an estimate of the damage caused to freelancers and businesses, emphasizing the need for a detailed assessment of the impact on the IT sector.
Conclusion
The meeting concluded with a strong commitment from the Standing Committee on Information Technology to address the current disruptions and enhance the future of IT and telecommunications in Pakistan. The committee plans to reconvene to review responses from the relevant authorities and ensure that necessary measures are implemented to prevent future issues and improve the country’s digital infrastructure.
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About the National Assembly Standing Committee on Information Technology:
The Standing Committee on Information Technology is tasked with overseeing issues related to the IT sector and telecommunications, focusing on governance, regulation, and technological advancement in Pakistan.
