Dear Editor,
I am writing to express my deepest concerns about the growing issue of internet disruptions in Pakistan and their detrimental impact on our economy. With Pakistan’s struggling economy and growing socio-politico divides, this continuous internet disruption has increased frustration among youth and economic stakeholders.
As, Pakistan is the 4th fastest-growing country in the world, with an impressive 78% growth rate annually. With an estimated 3 million freelancers, the Pakistani freelancing market and E-commerce have generated over $500 million in 2023 and have become one of the most dominating living sources for around a quarter of the population.
In today’s digital age, where the Internet serves as the backbone of commerce, communication, and innovation. Even short-lived disruptions can have far-reaching consequences. The impact is especially severe on startups, E-commerce platforms, digital payments, and even traditional businesses that have integrated digital solutions into their operations are all affected. These small yet dynamic businesses are the future of our economy which rely heavily on online platforms to operate, and their inability to function due to internet outages poses a serious threat to their survival and growth. According to the Pakistan Software House Authority, these disruptions could cost 300 million dollars in loss. These internet shutdowns affect more than just the tech industry; they disrupt everyday life and erode confidence in Pakistan’s economic stability and governance, deterring both local and foreign investors. What’s worse, the reasons behind these disruptions remain unclear.
The government must recognize the severity of this issue and ensure stable, uninterrupted internet access nationwide. As young Pakistanis striving to position our country in the global digital economy, these disruptions hinder our progress and hold us back.