During a meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology on Thursday, officials from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) clarified that blocking Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) in Pakistan is not feasible due to its significant impact on businesses. The committee, chaired by Senator Palusha Mohammad Zai Khan, also discussed the recent disruption in internet services caused by a submarine cable failure.
PTA officials informed the committee that on June 18, 2024, internet traffic in the country was severely disrupted due to the cutting of the SMW-4 optical fiber cable near Karachi. This submarine cable, part of a global network that ensures internet connectivity, plays a critical role in maintaining Pakistan’s digital infrastructure.
The disruption caused a significant slowdown in internet speeds across the country, affecting not only everyday users but also businesses that rely on stable and fast internet connections. The PTA assured the committee that efforts are underway to repair the damaged cable and restore normal internet speeds as soon as possible.
During the meeting, the topic of VPN usage in Pakistan was also brought up. PTA’s member enforcement explained that blocking VPNs is not a viable option for the country. VPNs are commonly used by businesses for secure communication and data transfer. Blocking these services would not only disrupt business operations but could also have broader economic implications.
"Blocking VPNs would have a detrimental effect on businesses that depend on these networks for secure transactions and communication,” the PTA official stated. "Such a move would be counterproductive to the government’s efforts to promote digital business practices and could lead to significant economic losses.”
The discussion in the committee also touched on concerns regarding internet security and the regulation of digital services in the country. PTA officials emphasized that while they are committed to ensuring a safe and secure digital environment, measures like blocking VPNs must be carefully considered to avoid unintended consequences.
The committee members raised questions about the PTA’s ability to manage and regulate the rapidly evolving digital landscape in Pakistan. They expressed concerns over the frequent internet disruptions and the potential risks posed by unregulated digital activities.
In response to concerns raised by the committee, PTA officials assured that the repair work on the submarine cable is being prioritized. They noted that internet services are expected to improve significantly once the cable is fully restored.
The PTA also outlined future plans to enhance the country’s digital infrastructure and reduce the risk of similar disruptions. This includes exploring alternative routes for internet traffic and investing in more resilient and redundant systems to ensure uninterrupted connectivity.
The meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology highlighted the challenges faced by Pakistan’s digital infrastructure, particularly in the wake of the recent submarine cable disruption. The PTA’s acknowledgment of the complexities involved in blocking VPNs reflects a balanced approach to internet regulation, one that seeks to protect business interests while maintaining a secure digital environment. As the country moves towards restoring its internet services, the focus remains on building a more resilient infrastructure to support Pakistan’s growing digital economy.
