Connectivity crisis hits IT sector hard

KARACHI:

For the past month, frequent disruptions in mobile data networks and internet services have inflicted huge financial losses on IT companies and freelancers across the country.

The connectivity issues have particularly impacted platforms like WhatsApp and Facebook, where users struggle to load images, videos, and audio.

IT professionals are urging mobile data network companies, internet device providers, and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to address these issues immediately to prevent further financial damage.

The problems began during the 8 to 10 Muharram and have persisted, predominantly affecting mobile data networks across the country. In contrast, ISPs using informal cable networks via WiFi have experienced fewer issues.

Experts note that mobile networks often suffer more due to limited bandwidth and higher user density, whereas ISPs typically have more robust infrastructure, resulting in fewer outages.

Another significant challenge is the vulnerability of aerial cabling to weather, accidents, and vandalism, leading to frequent service interruptions. Visually, tangled and unorganised cables create a negative “gooseneck” image, reflecting poorly on infrastructure and urban planning.

Pakistan’s telecommunication policies, regulated by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), require ISPs to meet service quality standards and uphold contractual agreements with users.

These policies aim to ensure that ISPs provide reliable and consistent service as promised. However, enforcement and compliance remain challenging, affecting overall service quality.

IT companies use multiple ISPs to ensure redundancy, minimize downtime, and maintain consistent connectivity. This strategy helps mitigate the risk of a single point of failure, ensuring continuous operations.

The reluctance may stem from differences in political, social, and economic contexts. Implementing tailored solutions that balance security and freedom of expression, while learning from international best practices, could improve the situation.

‘Backup contingency plans’

Dr Noman Said, an IT expert and consultant, advises establishing backup connections through multiple ISPs, utilising VPNs, and implementing offline contingency plans to handle disruptions.

He stressed the importance of regularly updating infrastructure and collaborating with service providers for rapid response during outages.

Dr Said also recommends IT companies diversify their internet sources, invest in robust backup systems, and implement remote work solutions while advocating for better infrastructure and government support.

Speaking about the suspension of the internet following security concerns, he said, “Yes, frequent disruptions are often due to security measures. Foreign countries, like the USA, use sophisticated data screening processes to monitor for threats while maintaining internet stability. Adopting similar methods could balance security needs with reliable connectivity.”

Pakistan Software Houses Association (PSHA) Chairman Muhammad Zohaib Khan stressed that freelancers and IT companies using VPNs and IP addresses should register to receive uninterrupted internet services.

When it comes to the national security concerns there is no compromise on it at all. The internet disruptions tarnish the branding and reputation of IT companies in foreign countries, he added.

This augurs well that there is no blanket shutdown for a long time in the country as there are disruptions on mobile data networks and some devices.

He emphasised the need to educate people from the school level about the importance of verifying data before transferring it. The government should run cyber security advertisements on TV channels, similar to anti-polio and population control campaigns.

Khawaja Fahad Shakeel, a leading AI strategist and CEO of Workforce Commerce, a Lahore-based IT company serving international clients, urged the government to stop micromanagement and micro-surveillance, allowing people to express their views freely in a democratic society.

He noted that informal cable networks and ISPs, along with mobile data networks, have been acting up for about a month. IT companies face significant challenges in paying salaries and fulfilling international client obligations during internet disruptions.

Such suspensions are causing a big nuisance in software houses and small setup of freelancers these days, he added.

He said the government must nab people who commit scams in various areas of South Punjab instead of looking askance at activities on social media apps.

He pointed out that slow internet services take a heavy toll on e-commerce businesses, freelancers, and IT companies to a great extent.

Meanwhile, despite phone calls, SMS, and WhatsApp, the PTA spokesperson could not be reached for comment on this pressing issue faced by IT professionals and common users these days.