Pakistan has been grappling with widespread internet slowdowns due to faults in two of its seven international submarine cables.
These disruptions, caused by issues in the SMW4 and AAE-1 cables, have led to significant connectivity challenges for users across the country.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) recently announced that the internet services are expected to be fully restored by early October 2024.
This comes as a relief to millions of users who have been experiencing sluggish internet speeds and intermittent connectivity for weeks.
The SMW4 (SEA-ME-WE 4) cable, which has been a major cause of the slowdown, is anticipated to be repaired by October 2024.
The cable, part of a crucial network connecting Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Western Europe, plays a significant role in maintaining Pakistan’s international connectivity. The repair work is being closely monitored, and authorities are optimistic about the timeline provided.
On a positive note, the AAE-1 (Asia-Africa-Europe-1) submarine cable has already been repaired, which has brought some improvement in internet speeds.
This repair is expected to alleviate some of the strain on the remaining operational cables and enhance the overall internet experience in the country. However, full restoration of services hinges on the successful repair of the SMW4 cable.
The ongoing slowdown has affected not only individual users but also businesses and institutions relying on stable internet connections. E-commerce, online education, and digital services have particularly borne the brunt of these disruptions.
The government and PTA have been under pressure to resolve the issue swiftly, and the recent updates provide a timeline that stakeholders can look forward to.
In conclusion, while the internet slowdown in Pakistan has caused significant inconvenience, the ongoing repairs and updates from the PTA indicate that full restoration is on the horizon. By early October 2024, users can expect a return to normalcy, with stable and reliable internet services across the country.
