Pakistan's internet crisis exposes telecom vulnerabilities

Pakistan's slow internet, worsened by AAE-1 cable damage, highlights telecom infrastructure weaknesses and its impact on the digital economy.

Pakistan's ongoing internet slowdown, exacerbated by damage to the AAE-1 undersea cable, has exposed critical vulnerabilities in the country's telecom infrastructure, raising concerns about its digital future.

The root of the problem

Pakistan's internet crisis stems from damage to the Asia-Africa-Europe-1 (AAE-1) undersea cable, a critical backbone for global connectivity. According to a PTCL press release, the cable suffered significant damage in late 2023, disrupting internet services across the region. This incident has highlighted the fragility of Pakistan's reliance on a single major undersea cable for its international connectivity.

Challenges for telecom operators

Telecom operators like PTCL are struggling to mitigate the impact. As reported by local news outlets, PTCL has been rerouting traffic through alternative cables, but the bandwidth remains insufficient to meet demand. Experts argue that the lack of investment in redundant infrastructure has left Pakistan vulnerable to such disruptions.

Broader implications for the digital economy

The slow internet crisis has far-reaching consequences for Pakistan's digital economy. A report by the Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA) estimates that the disruption has cost businesses millions in lost productivity. 'This is a wake-up call for the government and private sector to invest in robust telecom infrastructure,' said a P@SHA spokesperson.

Potential solutions

To prevent future crises, experts recommend investing in alternative undersea cables and improving local infrastructure. The government has announced plans to explore partnerships with international telecom companies to diversify connectivity options. Additionally, upgrading local networks and expanding fiber-optic coverage could enhance resilience.

The path forward

Pakistan's internet crisis underscores the importance of robust telecom infrastructure for economic growth and digital inclusion. As the country strives to become a digital hub, addressing these vulnerabilities will be crucial to ensuring a stable and prosperous future.

https://redrobot.online/2025/01/pakistans-internet-crisis-exposes-telecom-vulnerabilities/