“Telecom Regulator Attributes Recent Internet Disruptions to Submarine Cable Fault”
PTA Admits to National Firewall System Installation Amidst Internet Disruptions and Submarine Cable Fault
ISLAMABAD — The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has confirmed the implementation of a National Firewall System (NFS) designed to regulate social media content. This disclosure came during a session of the National Assembly Standing Committee on IT and Telecom on Wednesday. PTA Chairman Major General (retired) Hafeez Ur Rehman addressed the committee amid growing concerns over frequent internet disruptions across the country. However, Rehman emphasized that recent disruptions are primarily due to a fault in the submarine communication cable.
Acknowledgment of the National Firewall System
During the meeting, Rehman admitted that the NFS had been installed as part of a government directive from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) era. This system, intended to manage and control social media content, is being implemented as part of a broader strategy to enhance national security and regulate online platforms. The National Firewall System represents a significant step in the government’s approach to internet governance, reflecting ongoing efforts to assert control over digital content.
Submarine Cable Faults and Economic Impact
The PTA Chairman attributed the recent internet disruptions to issues with a submarine cable. Submarine cables, which run along the seabed and connect land-based telecommunications stations, are crucial for international data transmission. According to Rehman, a fault in this cable has been the primary cause of the service interruptions. He revealed that a letter received by the PTA indicates the fault is expected to be resolved by August 27.
The economic impact of these disruptions has been substantial. Rehman reported that the telecom sector alone suffered a loss of Rs300 million due to the disruptions, excluding the undocumented financial losses experienced by the IT sector. This highlights the severe implications of the internet issues on both economic activity and business operations in Pakistan.
Upgrades and Concerns Over the National Firewall
The National Firewall System is undergoing its third upgrade since its initial approval in October 2020 during the PTI government. However, financial constraints delayed the project’s execution. This upgrade is part of the government’s strategy to manage web content more aggressively and control social media platforms.
Committee members voiced concerns about the firewall’s potential impact on internet performance. PTI’s Omar Ayub suggested that the firewall might be contributing to the internet slowdown, sparking a debate among officials. Some argued that the firewall has not yet been fully deployed and therefore could not be responsible for the current disruptions. Rehman assured the committee that the firewall’s installation aligns with federal cabinet directives aimed at enhancing national security and controlling social media content.
Debates on Digital Freedom and Transparency
Ayub expressed apprehension about the implications of such a system on digital freedom in Pakistan. He emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in implementing measures that could impact citizens’ online experiences. The discussion also touched on the potential for government agencies to intercept private communications, raising questions about privacy and oversight.
The committee reiterated its opposition to measures that could hinder progress and stressed the importance of understanding the firewall’s impact on daily life. Members underscored the necessity of ensuring that any actions taken are transparent and accountable to parliament.
Internet Service Quality and Regional Disparities
During the meeting, the committee also addressed concerns about the quality of internet service in various regions. Some areas, particularly in interior Sindh, have experienced prolonged issues with internet connectivity and weak mobile signals. The committee expressed dissatisfaction with the PTA’s responses and questioned whether citizens in these regions are receiving equitable service.
Rehman assured the committee that a quality-of-service mechanism is in place, with fines imposed on companies that fail to meet service standards. The PTA conducts regular surveys, and mobile operators are required to install 455 new towers annually to improve coverage and service quality.
Additional Factors Affecting Internet Service
In a related update, the PTA informed the Lahore High Court (LHC) that the recent internet service disruptions were caused by multiple factors. Besides the submarine cable fault, a mistake by an internet company on July 31 contributed to reduced internet speeds. Additionally, a cyberattack on Indian National Day on August 15 further exacerbated the slowdown. The PTA also noted that excessive use of VPNs can affect internet speed. The LHC is currently hearing a petition challenging unannounced internet service disruptions.