Technology

‘Faulty submarine cable’ causing nationwide internet slowdown: PTA Chairman

Published by
Digital Desk

ISLAMABAD:  The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) claimed that a fault in the submarine cable is the reason behind the intermittent internet disruption in Pakistan.

According to the details, PTA Chairman, Major General (retd) Hafiz Rahman, today clarified that no firewalls were being installed, after drawing criticism from both lawmakers and the public on widespread complaints about internet slowdowns across the country.

While briefing the Standing Committee on Information Technology, chaired by Syed Aminul Haque, the PTA chief said that the nationwide internet slowdown is due to t a faulty submarine cable, which is expected to be prepared by Aug 27, 2024.

“Submarine Consortium has informed [us] that the internet [services] are affected due to a damage in one of the 7 fiber optic cables connected with Pakistan which will be resolved by August 27,” he added.

‘Web management system upgraded’

Answering the queries regarding whether a firewall system was in place, the PTA Chairman said that it was the government’s web management system — and not a firewall — which was being upgraded.

“The public should be informed why internet service is affected. It should be informed whether a firewall is installed or not?” MQM-P lawmaker Amin Ul Haq asked, adding that the PTA should communicate the matter with the media so that the public is informed.

Responding to the query, Gen Rehman referred to IT Minister Shiza Fatima’s remarks saying that the reasons behind the prevailing issue were duly addressed in the minister’s presser and remarked that the use of VPNs led to the internet being down.

Digital Desk

Recent Posts

PTA warns users against sharing unlawful online content

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued a warning for mobile phone users against…

7 hours ago

Iranian President lauds Pakistan’s peace efforts during key meetings

ISLAMABAD: Iranian President Dr. Masoud Peshkeskian met President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz…

8 hours ago

Govt approves reduced property tax rates, new income tax slabs for salaried class

ISLAMABAD: The government has approved a reduction in advance tax rates on property buyers and…

9 hours ago

CDF Asim Munir meets Iranian President, discusses regional situation following US-Iran talks

RAWALPINDI: Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, met with Iranian President Masoud…

11 hours ago

Solar panels, batteries rates drop amid reduction in petrol price

LAHORE: Following the reduction of petroleum prices, solar panels and batteries witnessed a sharp fall…

11 hours ago

SBP announces two bank holidays

ISLAMABAD: State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has declared a two-day public holiday for Ashura (9th &…

11 hours ago